A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client following an upper gastrointestinal series using barium contrast. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A Reason:
Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. It does not contain sulfa and is generally considered safe for individuals with a sulfa allergy. Prednisone is used to treat a variety of conditions, including autoimmune disorders, allergic reactions, and asthma.

Choice B Reason:
Digoxin is a medication used to treat heart conditions, such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure. It is not a sulfa drug and is not known to cause adverse reactions in individuals with a sulfa allergy. Digoxin works by increasing the force of heart contractions and regulating heart rhythm.

Choice C Reason:
Celecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that belongs to the class of medications known as COX-2 inhibitors. It is used to relieve pain and inflammation. Celecoxib contains a sulfa moiety and can cause allergic reactions in individuals with a sulfa allergy. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to clarify this prescription with the healthcare provider.

Choice D Reason:
Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. It does not contain sulfa and is not associated with allergic reactions in individuals with a sulfa allergy. Atorvastatin works by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver.

Choice A Reason:
The recommendation for testicular self-exams is to perform them monthly, not every 6 months. Regular monthly exams are crucial for early detection of any changes. Testicular self-exams are recommended monthly because testicular cancer can develop rapidly, and early detection is key. Performing the exam every 6 months would reduce the chances of catching changes early.

Choice B Reason:Performing a breast self-examination (BSE) at the right time in the menstrual cycle is crucial for detecting changes accurately. Throughout the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations can cause temporary swelling, tenderness, and lumpiness in breast tissue. However, these changes subside after menstruation, making it easier to identify abnormalities. The optimal time for a BSE is about a week after menstruation, when estrogen and progesterone levels are lower, reducing breast tenderness and swelling. Conducting the exam at the same time each month provides consistency, making it easier to notice any unusual lumps or changes. For postmenopausal women, choosing a specific date each month for a self-exam is recommended. While BSEs do not replace mammograms, they help individuals become familiar with their normal breast texture, aiding in early detection of potential concerns.

Choice C Reason:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend an annual flu vaccination due to the frequent mutations of the influenza virus. Each year, new dominant strains emerge, requiring updates to the vaccine composition to ensure effective protection. Additionally, immunity from the flu vaccine declines over 6 to 12 months, making annual vaccination necessary to maintain adequate protection. This is particularly important for vulnerable populations, such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions, who are at higher risk for severe flu complications.

Choice D Reason:
The hepatitis B vaccine schedule does not include yearly vaccinations. The standard vaccination schedule includes three doses over six months. However, there is no current search result available to provide the exact schedule. The hepatitis B vaccine provides long-term protection after the initial series of shots. Annual vaccinations are not required or recommended for hepatitis B, unlike the flu shot.