A nurse is reporting a client's laboratory tests to the provider to obtain a prescription for the client's daily warfarin.
Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse plan to report to obtain the prescription for the warfarin?

The correct answer is **a. Observe for bruising of the skin.**

Choice A rationale: Observing for bruising of the skin is an appropriate nursing intervention when caring for a client receiving alteplase (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator or rt-PA), a thrombolytic medication used to dissolve blood clots. Alteplase can increase the risk of bleeding, including bruising, as it works to break down the clot. Closely monitoring the client for any signs of bleeding or bruising is crucial to identify and manage potential complications.

Choice B rationale: Administering medications intramuscularly is not recommended when a client is receiving alteplase. Intramuscular injections can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided, as alteplase can impair the body's ability to form clots and stop bleeding.

Choice C rationale: Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours is not the appropriate frequency for a client receiving alteplase. Vital signs should be monitored more frequently, typically every 30 minutes to 1 hour, to closely observe for any changes that may indicate bleeding or other complications.

Choice D rationale: Providing a diet low in protein is not a necessary intervention for a client receiving alteplase. Alteplase works by targeting the blood clot and does not require specific dietary modifications. The focus should be on monitoring for bleeding and managing any potential complications, rather than adjusting the client's diet.

Choice A rationale:
Contractures are a risk for this client due to the lack of movement and constant positioning on one side. Contractures occur when the muscles, tendons, or ligaments shorten and tighten, limiting range of motion and flexibility. This can be a result of prolonged immobility or lack of use of the muscles.
Choice B rationale:
Calcium resorption is not a risk for this client. Calcium resorption refers to the process where bone tissue is broken down and calcium is released into the bloodstream. This process is not directly related to immobility or multiple sclerosis.
Choice C rationale:
Hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels in the blood, is also not a direct risk for this client. While immobility can lead to bone loss over time, it does not directly cause hypocalcemia.
Choice D rationale:
Diarrhea is not a risk for this client based on the information provided. Diarrhea can be a symptom of many conditions but there is no indication in the scenario that this client is at risk.
Choice E rationale:
Urinary stasis is a risk for this client due to their immobility. When a person is immobile, urine can pool in the bladder, creating an environment where bacteria can grow, potentially leading to urinary tract infections.