A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has cancer and a prescription for a fentanyl 25 mcg/hr transdermal patch. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A) Have the child take a tub bath each morning:Warm tub baths can help alleviate morning stiffness and improve joint mobility in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. This intervention can be soothing and help the child start the day with less discomfort, promoting better overall function and quality of life.

B) Encourage the child to take naps during the day:While rest is important, excessive napping can lead to decreased physical activity, which may worsen joint stiffness and reduce muscle strength. It is more beneficial to encourage regular, gentle exercise and activity throughout the day.

C) Apply splints to the child’s extremities during the day:Splints are typically used at night to prevent joint deformities and maintain proper alignment. During the day, it is important for the child to remain active and use their joints to maintain mobility and strength.

D) Keep the child on bedrest as long as pain persists:Prolonged bedrest can lead to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, which can worsen the child’s condition. Encouraging gentle movement and activity, even when experiencing pain, is crucial for managing juvenile idiopathic arthritis effectively.

A. Use a syringe to allow the medications to flow by gravity: This is the appropriate action. Using a syringe for medication administration allows for precise control of the flow rate and ensures that the medications can be delivered effectively without causing complications, such as clogging the tube.

B. Dissolve the medications together: Combining medications can lead to interactions or precipitation, which may compromise their effectiveness. Each medication should be administered separately to ensure proper absorption and avoid potential adverse reactions.

C. Add medication directly to enteral feeding: This practice is not recommended, as mixing medications with enteral feeding can alter the medication's effectiveness and may affect the feeding’s nutrient absorption. Medications should be administered separately from enteral feeds.

D. Flush the NG tube with 5 mL water: While flushing the NG tube is necessary, 5 mL may not be sufficient for proper flushing. Typically, a larger volume (e.g., 20-30 mL) is recommended to ensure the tube is clear before and after medication administration. Flushing is important but should follow the appropriate volume guidelines.