A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with a client who has a prescription for antibiotictherapy. The client reports experiencing diarrhea when taking antibiotics. Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend to lessen the occurrence of diarrhea?

The correct answer is A.

Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward. Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic that treats bacterial infections of the eye.

The nurse should apply a thin layer of ointment along the lower eyelid margin and wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus (the corner of the eye near the nose) outward with a sterile gauze pad or tissue to prevent clogging of tear ducts and spreading of infection.

Choice A option:

Dietitian should not be consulted: The dietitian is an essential team member and will work closely with the client to ensure proper nutrition and dietary management. However, in the context of dysphagia, the speech-language pathologist's expertise is needed to determine safe swallowing strategies and food modifications.

Choice B option:

Physical therapist should not be consulted: The physical therapist focuses on maintaining and improving the client's physical function and mobility. While important in ALS management, the physical therapist's role is not directly related to the immediate issue of dysphagia.

Choice C option:

The speech-language pathologist is the correct answer because it specializes in assessing and treating communication and swallowing disorders. In this case, the speech-language pathologist is essential in evaluating the client's swallowing function, recommending appropriate dietary modifications (texture and consistency of foods), and implementing swallowing exercises or strategies to improve swallowing safety.

Choice D option:

Occupational therapist should not be consulted: The occupational therapist assists clients in regaining or maintaining independence in daily living activities. While the occupational therapist may address some aspects of mealtime activities and adaptive strategies, the speech-language pathologist is more specialized in evaluating and treating swallowing difficulties in clients with ALS.