A nurse is providing preoperative teaching for an adolescent who is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Answer: B. Compare the result with the baseline reading

Rationale:

A. Check the client's heart rate on the oximeter:
Although checking the heart rate may provide context for assessing the client's overall status, it does not address the primary concern of the low oxygen saturation. Understanding the client's baseline saturation level takes priority to guide further actions effectively.

B. Compare the result with the baseline reading:
Comparing the reading with the client's baseline is essential. For clients with chronic respiratory conditions, baseline oxygen levels may naturally be lower. Identifying if this 88% saturation is typical or unusual for the client helps determine the need for further intervention or adjustment.

C. Decrease the amount of oxygen administered:
Reducing oxygen flow when the saturation is low is contraindicated, as it could worsen hypoxia. Instead, increasing oxygen may be warranted if the reading remains below the baseline after further assessment.

D. Perform another reading while the client ambulates:
Repeating the reading during ambulation may worsen hypoxia and is not ideal without understanding baseline oxygenation at rest. Re-evaluation at rest or in a different position may be more appropriate for accurate assessment.

The correct answer is a. Call EMS if a seizure lasts 5 minutes or more.

Explanation:

When providing home care instructions for a child with a seizure disorder, it is important to educate the parents about appropriate actions during a seizure. Calling emergency medical services (EMS) if a seizure lasts 5 minutes or more is crucial because it may indicate a condition called status epilepticus, which is a prolonged seizure or a series of seizures without full recovery of consciousness between them. Status epilepticus is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical intervention.

Option b, restraining the child at the onset of a seizure, is not recommended. Restraint can potentially cause harm to the child and increase the risk of injury. It is advised to create a safe environment by removing any nearby objects that could cause injury and placing a pillow or cushion under the child's head to prevent head injury.

Option c, offering the child a bubble bath every evening, is not specifically related to seizure management. Bathing routines can be continued as long as they are safe and supervised. However, it is important to ensure the child's safety during bathing, such as providing adequate supervision to prevent drowning or injury.

Option d, placing the child in a prone position during a seizure, is not recommended. Placing the child in a prone position (face down) during a seizure can obstruct the airway and increase the risk of respiratory complications. The child should be placed on their side, in a recovery position, to facilitate drainage of saliva or other fluids and prevent choking.

Overall, the most important instruction for the parents is to recognize the signs of prolonged seizure activity and to seek immediate medical assistance by calling EMS if a seizure lasts 5 minutes or more.