A nurse is providing teaching about immunizations to a client who is pregnant. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

Jaw pain in a client taking alendronate, a bisphosphonate, for postmenopausal osteoporosis may be a sign of a rare but serious side effect called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). Therefore, the nurse should respond by: Report the client's jaw pain to the healthcare provider.

Jaw pain can be an indication of ONJ, a condition characterized by the death of jawbone tissue. It is important to notify the healthcare provider so that further evaluation and appropriate management can be initiated. The healthcare provider will determine the best course of action, which may include referral to a specialist for further assessment and treatment.

Determining how the client is administering the medication is not the immediate concern in this situation. While it is important to ensure that the client is following proper administration instructions for alendronate, addressing the jaw pain takes precedence. Advising the client to gargle with warm salt water twice daily may not be sufficient or appropriate for managing jaw pain related to alendronate use. The client needs a comprehensive assessment by the healthcare provider to determine the cause of the jaw pain and provide appropriate interventions.

Confirming that jaw pain is a common symptom of osteoporosis is not accurate. While osteoporosis can lead to bone pain, jaw pain specifically associated with bisphosphonate use is more likely to be related to ONJ and requires further evaluation and management.

Choice A rationale:

Storing unused patches in the refrigerator is not necessary for transdermal scopolamine patches. Refrigeration is not a requirement for their storage.

Choice B rationale:

Applying the patch prior to traveling is the correct choice. Transdermal scopolamine patches are used to prevent motion sickness. Applying the patch before the journey allows the medication to be absorbed before exposure to motion, ensuring its effectiveness during travel.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the patch on the upper arm is a specific and correct instruction for applying transdermal scopolamine patches. The patch should be placed on a clean, dry, and hairless area of the skin, preferably behind the ear or on the upper arm.

Choice D rationale:

Replacing a dislodged patch onto the same location is incorrect. If the patch becomes dislodged, it should be replaced with a new patch on a different, clean, and dry area of the skin. Reapplying a dislodged patch to the same spot may result in uneven absorption and reduced effectiveness.