A nurse is receiving a telephone prescription from a provider for a client who requires additional medication for pain control. Which of the following entries should the nurse make in the medical record?

Rationale:

A. Trochanter roll: A trochanter roll is used to prevent external rotation of the hips in clients who are immobile. It does not support the feet or ankles and therefore does not prevent plantar flexion contractures.

B. Footboard: A footboard helps maintain the foot in a dorsiflexed, neutral position by providing firm support against the soles. This prevents foot drop, a common plantar flexion contracture in clients with limited mobility.

C. Sheepskin heel pad: Sheepskin heel pads protect the heels from pressure ulcers by reducing friction and shear but do not maintain ankle alignment or prevent plantar flexion of the feet.

D. Abduction pillow: An abduction pillow is placed between the legs to maintain hip alignment after procedures like hip replacement. It offers no support to the feet and does not prevent plantar flexion.

Rationale for correct choices:

• A change in mood: Mood changes, including depression, irritability, or suicidal thoughts, are serious adverse effects associated with isotretinoin use. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to these side effects, and any mood alterations during treatment warrant immediate provider notification.
• Decreased night vision: Isotretinoin can lead to visual disturbances, including decreased night vision, which may be sudden and irreversible. This adverse effect is rare but serious, and any signs of visual impairment should be reported promptly to prevent injury or permanent damage.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• The development of dry eyes: Dry eyes are a common and expected side effect of isotretinoin, often due to mucous membrane dryness. While uncomfortable, it is not typically dangerous and can usually be managed with lubricating eye drops or supportive care without immediate provider contact.
• Dry mouth: Dry mouth occurs frequently with isotretinoin due to its drying effects on mucosal surfaces. It is bothersome but not dangerous, and clients can manage it with increased fluid intake and sugar-free lozenges. It doesn’t require urgent medical attention unless severe.
• Nausea: Nausea is not a common or concerning side effect of isotretinoin. If persistent or severe, it may require evaluation, but it is not a priority symptom for immediate provider contact unless accompanied by other warning signs like abdominal pain or jaundice.
• Sunburn: Increased photosensitivity is an expected effect of isotretinoin, and clients should be advised to wear sunscreen and protective clothing. Sunburn, while uncomfortable, is not an emergency and does not require immediate medical consultation unless it becomes severe.
• Worsening of acne: An initial acne flare is a known and expected part of isotretinoin therapy as pores begin to purge. This typically improves after several weeks and does not indicate treatment failure or require immediate provider notification unless accompanied by signs of infection.
• Engagement in sexual activity: While not a symptom, sexual activity is significant for female clients due to isotretinoin's teratogenicity. However, since this client has a negative hCG and is not sexually active, this is part of routine risk counselling not an immediate concern unless pregnancy is possible.