A nurse is reviewing the EKG strip of a client who has prolonged vomiting. Which of the following abnormalities on the client's EKG should the nurse interpret as a sign of hypokalemia?

A. Measure the circumference of both upper arms: This is the priority action. Swelling above the PICC insertion site could indicate infiltration or another complication. Measuring the circumference of both upper arms allows the nurse to assess the extent of swelling and monitor for any changes over time, providing valuable information for further intervention and evaluation.
B. Notify the provider who inserted the PICC line: This is an important action, but it may not be the first step. Before notifying the provider, the nurse should gather objective data by assessing the client's condition, such as measuring arm circumference, to provide a comprehensive report to the provider.
C. Remove the PICC line: This is not the first action to take. Removing the PICC line should only be considered after thorough assessment and under the direction of a healthcare provider, especially if there are signs of complications such as swelling.
D. Apply a cold pack to the client's upper arm: While applying a cold pack may help reduce swelling in some cases, it is not the priority action in this situation. The nurse should first assess the extent of swelling and gather additional data before implementing interventions such as cold therapy.

A. Dry the skin: The priority nursing action immediately following birth is to ensure the newborn's warmth. Drying the newborn's skin helps prevent hypothermia, which is a significant risk for neonates. The nurse should dry the newborn's skin using a warm, dry towel to prevent heat loss through evaporation.
B. Administer vitamin K: Administering vitamin K is an important procedure shortly after birth to prevent hemorrhagic disease of the newborn. However, ensuring warmth by drying the skin takes precedence over administering vitamin K as the newborn's temperature regulation is crucial immediately after delivery.
C. Place an identification bracelet: Placing an identification bracelet on the newborn is essential for proper identification and security purposes, but it is not the priority immediately after birth. Ensuring the newborn's warmth and maintaining physiological stability take precedence.
D. Administer eye prophylaxis: Administering eye prophylaxis, typically in the form of erythromycin ointment or another antimicrobial agent, is important to prevent neonatal conjunctivitis due to exposure to maternal pathogens during delivery. However, this intervention can wait until after the newborn's warmth is ensured through drying the skin.