A nurse is preparing to insert a client's NG tube for enteral feedings. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Decrease in vitamin intake: While vitamin deficiencies are common in older adults, they generally do not cause weight gain.

B. Increase in fluid requirements: Fluid requirements typically stay the same or slightly decrease; fluid retention causes weight gain, but it is not a normal metabolic factor of aging.

C. Increase in protein requirements: Protein needs remain stable; a lack of protein can lead to muscle wasting, but it doesn't inherently cause weight gain.

D. Decrease in muscle mass: As people age, they often experience sarcopenia (loss of muscle tissue). Since muscle burns more calories than fat, a decrease in muscle mass lowers the basal metabolic rate, making weight gain more likely if caloric intake isn't reduced.

A. Store the oxygen cylinder wrench with the oxygen tank.: The wrench is necessary to open the oxygen tank in an emergency or when changing tanks. Keeping it with the tank ensures it is immediately available for the client or caregiver.

B. Take steroid medication in the morning.: Prednisone (a corticosteroid) can cause insomnia and restlessness. Taking it in the morning aligns with the body's natural circadian rhythm of cortisol production and helps prevent sleep disturbances.

C. Decrease the steroid dose each day.: The prescription states "40 mg PO daily for 5 days." The nurse should instruct the client to take the full dose as prescribed. While steroids are often tapered, the client should not self-taper unless specifically directed by the provider's prescription.

D. Take antibiotic medication with or without food.: Cephalexin can be taken without regard to meals. However, if the medication causes GI upset, taking it with food can help mitigate nausea.

E. Adjust the oxygen flow rate as needed to ease breathing.: Oxygen is considered a medication. The client must maintain the prescribed flow rate (3 L/min) and should never adjust it without a provider's order, as excessive oxygen can be harmful to some patients.

F. Ensure the oxygen delivery system is at least 8 feet from any heat source.: Oxygen supports combustion. To prevent fires, tanks and concentrators must be kept away from open flames, space heaters, candles, or gas stoves. Standard safety guidelines usually recommend 5 to 10 feet (8 feet is a safe middle ground).

G. Take antibiotics for 10 days.: The prescription specifically states "every 6 hr for 5 days." Taking medications for longer than prescribed is incorrect instruction.