A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for lovastatin. Which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse instruct the client to complete before starting the medication?

Choice A rationale:

Administering phenytoin IV no faster than 100 mg/min is crucial to prevent adverse effects such as cardiovascular collapse or severe hypotension. Rapid administration of phenytoin can cause cardiac arrhythmias and should be avoided.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring plasma phenytoin levels to establish the therapeutic range is a necessary action in managing the client's seizure disorder, but it does not pertain to the specific administration of phenytoin via intermittent bolus.

Choice C rationale:

Adding the medication to the existing IV solution is not appropriate for phenytoin administration. Phenytoin should be administered separately and not mixed with other IV solutions to maintain its stability and prevent interactions.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring the client for hypertension is not directly related to the administration of phenytoin via intermittent bolus. Hypertension is not a common adverse effect of this medication. However, blood pressure should be monitored as part of routine care for any client on antiepileptic therapy.

Choice A rationale:
The nurse should instruct the client to place cellular phones on the ear opposite the side of the pacemaker to minimize the risk of electromagnetic interference. Although the risk of interference is low with modern pacemakers, it is still a precautionary measure. Placing the phone on the ear opposite the pacemaker reduces the likelihood of any potential electromagnetic interaction.
Choice B rationale:
The instruction in choice B, "Avoid showering for the first 2 weeks following surgery,”. is not appropriate. There is no need for the client to avoid showering after pacemaker insertion. In fact, maintaining good hygiene is essential to prevent infection at the incision site. The client can take a shower, but they should avoid soaking the incision area and patting it dry afterward.
Choice C rationale:
The instruction in choice C, "Avoid heavy lifting for 1 week following insertion,”. is not the best option. The recommended timeframe to avoid heavy lifting after a pacemaker insertion is usually around 4 to 6 weeks. This duration allows the surgical site to heal properly and reduces the risk of dislodging the pacemaker leads or causing damage.
Choice D rationale:
The instruction in choice D, "Stand at least 2 feet away while using a microwave,”. is not directly related to pacemaker care. While it is generally recommended to maintain a safe distance from microwaves during use, this instruction is not specific to clients with pacemakers.