A nurse is reinforcing teaching for a client who has been receiving a PCA pump following a hysterectomy. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate the provider to prescribe?

A. Administer the tablet to the client with applesauce: Administering the tablet with a small amount of soft food like applesauce can help facilitate swallowing without altering the integrity of the enteric coating. This method eases the swallowing process while ensuring the medication is delivered properly.

B. Position the client at a 45-degree angle: Clients who have difficulty swallowing should be positioned in an upright 90-degree sitting position, not at 45 degrees, to reduce the risk of aspiration and promote safer swallowing mechanics.

C. Crush the tablet and mix it in pudding for the client: Enteric-coated tablets should never be crushed, as crushing destroys the protective coating designed to prevent the medication from being released in the stomach, potentially causing irritation or reducing drug effectiveness.

D. Instruct the client to tilt their head back when swallowing: Tilting the head back increases the risk of choking and aspiration, especially in clients with swallowing difficulties. It is safer to encourage tucking the chin slightly down when swallowing to help protect the airway.

A. Drink high-protein nutritional supplements between meals: Clients with COPD often experience anorexia due to fatigue, difficulty breathing while eating, and early satiety. High-protein, high-calorie supplements between meals help meet nutritional needs without overwhelming them during main meals, supporting energy levels and respiratory muscle strength.

B. Eat more hot foods than cold foods at mealtime: Hot foods can produce stronger odors that may worsen appetite loss. Cold foods tend to have milder smells and may be better tolerated by clients with anorexia, making cold foods preferable rather than focusing on hot foods.

C. Eat low-calorie foods first at mealtime: Clients with anorexia and COPD should prioritize high-calorie, nutrient-dense foods first to maximize intake before feeling full. Eating low-calorie foods first could reduce overall calorie intake, worsening weight loss and malnutrition risks.

D. Increase liquids during meals: Consuming large amounts of liquid during meals can cause early satiety, making it harder for clients to consume enough food. It is better to encourage drinking fluids between meals to optimize food intake during eating times.