A nurse is reinforcing preoperative teaching with a client who is to undergo a bowel resection at 1300 next week. Which of the following statements client indicates to the nurse a need for further teaching?

(A) Encourage the client to increase participation in community social activities: While social activities can be beneficial for mental health, a client at the end of life may not have the physical strength or energy to participate in community social activities. Moreover, due to the compromised immune system in HIV, exposure to large groups could increase the risk of infections.

(B) Prepare the client to begin highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART): HAART is typically initiated in the early stages of HIV infection to slow the progression of the disease. In a client who has had HIV for 10 years and is at the end of life, the focus would likely be on palliative care and symptom management rather than starting aggressive therapy.

(c) Promote client weight gain of one to two pounds per week: Weight gain might not be a realistic goal for a client at the end of life. Instead, maintaining a balanced diet to prevent malnutrition and managing symptoms like nausea and loss of appetite would be more appropriate.

(D) Provide routine analgesia to minimize episodes of breakthrough pain: This is the most appropriate intervention. Pain management is a critical aspect of end-of-life care. Providing routine analgesia can help ensure the client’s comfort and improve their quality of life. Breakthrough pain can be very distressing for the client, and managing it effectively can significantly enhance their well-being.

(a) Heart rate of 66/min:
A heart rate of 66/min is within the normal range (60-100 bpm) and does not typically require contacting the provider before administering a calcium channel blocker. CCBs can affect heart rate, but this finding alone is not a contraindication for their use.

(b) BP of 148/94 mm Hg:
A blood pressure reading of 148/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which is an appropriate indication for the use of calcium channel blockers. This finding supports the use of the medication rather than requiring the provider to be contacted.

(c) Peripheral edema of the ankles:
Peripheral edema is a known side effect of calcium channel blockers. If the client is already experiencing edema, administering the medication could potentially worsen this condition. The nurse should contact the provider to discuss this finding before proceeding with the medication administration.

(d) A digoxin level of 1.2 ng/mL:
A digoxin level of 1.2 ng/mL is within the therapeutic range (0.5-2.0 ng/mL). This finding does not necessitate contacting the provider before administering a calcium channel blocker, as it does not indicate toxicity or a contraindication for CCB use