A nurse is preparing to initiate a continuous enteral feeding through an open system to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A) Calcium gluconate 1.5 grams IV now: Calcium gluconate is administered to counteract the effects of hyperkalemia by stabilizing the myocardial cell membrane. It does not lower potassium levels but helps protect the heart from potential dysrhythmias associated with high potassium levels.

B) Dextrose 50% injection (50ml) IV push now: Dextrose 50% injection, also known as D50W, is administered to temporarily shift potassium from the extracellular space into the intracellular space, thereby lowering serum potassium levels. It is commonly used in combination with insulin to facilitate the movement of potassium into cells.

C) Colace 100 mg PO now: Colace is a stool softener and does not affect serum potassium levels. It is not indicated for the treatment of hyperkalemia.

D) Regular insulin 10 units IV now: Regular insulin is administered with dextrose to facilitate the movement of potassium from the extracellular space into the intracellular space. Insulin stimulates the cellular uptake of glucose, which in turn drives potassium into cells along with glucose.

E) Potassium chloride 20 mEq orally now: Potassium chloride is contraindicated in the treatment of hyperkalemia as it would further increase serum potassium levels. It is typically used to supplement potassium in clients with hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia.

A. A client who has stage IV breast cancer and is expected to live 3 months:
This client is eligible for hospice care because they have a terminal illness (stage IV breast cancer) with a prognosis of less than six months to live if the disease follows its typical course. Hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life in the final months of life.

B. A client who has a diagnosis of COPD and requires supplemental oxygen:
This client is not automatically eligible for hospice care based solely on a COPD diagnosis and the need for supplemental oxygen. Eligibility for hospice would require a prognosis of six months or less to live if the disease follows its usual course. More specific criteria, such as frequent hospitalizations or a significant decline in functional status, would need to be met.

C. A client who has end-stage kidney disease and has stopped dialysis:
This client is eligible for hospice care because stopping dialysis typically indicates that the client has a limited life expectancy, usually measured in weeks to months. Hospice care can help manage symptoms and provide support for end-of-life care.

D. A client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus and is on an insulin pump:
This client is not eligible for hospice care based solely on the presence of type 1 diabetes mellitus and the use of an insulin pump. Hospice care eligibility is generally for clients with a terminal diagnosis and a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease follows its usual course.

E. A client who has terminal lung cancer and has discontinued all treatment:
This client is eligible for hospice care because they have a terminal illness (lung cancer) and have chosen to discontinue curative treatment. Hospice care focuses on palliative treatment to improve the quality of life and manage symptoms during the end-of-life stage.