A nurse is teaching a client about self-administering a subcutaneous injection to the abdomen. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

When handling an unused portion of an oral opioid analgesic after administration, the nurse should take the following action:

D) Return the unused portion to the locked narcotics storage location.

Returning the unused portion to the locked narcotics storage location is a crucial step to ensure proper control and documentation of controlled substances like opioids. It helps prevent diversion and ensures the security and accountability of these medications.

Options A, B, and C are not appropriate:

A) Sending the unused portion to the pharmacy is not typically the responsibility of the nurse, and it may not be a practical or safe option for controlled substances.

B) Having a second nurse verify disposal of the unused portion is not a standard practice for oral medication administration.

C) Keeping the unused portion in the client's medication drawer is not an appropriate method of handling unused controlled substances, as it lacks the necessary security and accountability measures.

Choice A rationale:

The client's statement about increasing daily intake of calcium and vitamin D indicates an understanding of the teaching related to kyphosis and osteoporosis. Kyphosis is a condition where there is an abnormal curvature of the spine, leading to a hunched-back appearance, and osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones. Calcium and vitamin D are essential nutrients for maintaining bone health. Calcium is a mineral that is a major component of bones, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium from the diet. Adequate intake of these nutrients is crucial for preventing further bone loss and fractures in individuals with kyphosis and osteoporosis.

Choice B rationale:

The client's statement about scheduling an electrophysiologic study is unrelated to the teaching about kyphosis and osteoporosis. Electrophysiologic studies are used to evaluate the electrical activity of the heart, and they are not directly relevant to the client's bone health or the management of kyphosis and osteoporosis.

Choice C rationale:

The client's statement about wearing a neck brace while sleeping to prevent injury is incorrect and indicates a misunderstanding of the teaching. Kyphosis primarily affects the thoracic (upper/mid-back) spine and is not typically associated with wearing a neck brace. Neck braces are more commonly used for cervical spine issues.

Choice D rationale:

The client's statement about avoiding weight-bearing exercise to minimize trauma is incorrect and demonstrates a misunderstanding of the teaching. Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking and strength training, is important for maintaining bone density and muscle strength, which are critical for individuals with kyphosis and osteoporosis. Avoiding weight-bearing exercise could actually lead to further bone loss and weakness.