An older adult client with symptoms of osteoarthritis asks the nurse which form of exercise would be most beneficial. Which is the best response by the nurse?

Choice A reason: Applying prescribed lotions to the radiation site is a good action for a client with cancer receiving external beam radiation, because it can help moisturize and protect the skin from irritation and breakdown. The client should follow the instructions of the health care provider regarding the type and frequency of lotion application. Therefore, this choice does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice B reason: Washing the radiation site with antibacterial soap and water is a bad action for a client with cancer receiving external beam radiation, because it can cause dryness, inflammation, and infection of the skin. The client should use mild soap and water or saline solution to gently cleanse the area without rubbing or scrubbing. Therefore, this choice indicates a need for further teaching.

Choice C reason: Wearing clothing to cover the radiation site is a good action for a client with cancer receiving external beam radiation, because it can help shield the skin from sun exposure and friction. The client should wear loose-fitting, soft, cotton clothing that does not irritate or constrict the area. Therefore, this choice does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice D reason: Drying the area with patting motions after taking a shower is a good action for a client with cancer receiving external beam radiation, because it can help prevent trauma and infection of the skin. The client should avoid rubbing or scratching the area or using hair dryers or heating pads on it. Therefore, this choice does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice A reason: Potassium 4.7 mEq/L (4.70 mmol/L) is within the normal reference range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L). Potassium is an electrolyte that helps regulate the balance of fluids and acids in the body, as well as the function of nerves and muscles. A high potassium level (hyperkalemia) can cause muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, and cardiac arrest. A low potassium level (hypokalemia) can cause muscle cramps, fatigue, and arrhythmias.

Choice B reason: Magnesium 2.1 mEq/L (0.86 mmol/L) is within the normal reference range of 1.3 to 2.1 mEq/L (0.65 to 1.05 mmol/L). Magnesium is an electrolyte that helps regulate the activity of enzymes, muscles, and nerves, as well as the balance of calcium and potassium in the body. A high magnesium level (hypermagnesemia) can cause nausea, vomiting, flushing, muscle weakness, and respiratory depression. A low magnesium level (hypomagnesemia) can cause muscle twitching, tremors, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias.

Choice C reason: Calcium 6.5 mg/dL (1.63 mmol/L) is below the normal reference range of 9 to 10.5 mg/dL (2.3 to 2.6 mmol/L). Calcium is an electrolyte that helps regulate the function of muscles, nerves, bones, and blood clotting. A high calcium level (hypercalcemia) can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, kidney stones, and bone pain. A low calcium level (hypocalcemia) can cause muscle spasms, cramps, tingling, numbness, and stridor (a high-pitched sound when breathing). **This is a critical value that should be immediately reported to the healthcare provider**, as it can indicate a serious condition such as acute pancreatitis, sepsis, or massive blood transfusion.

Choice D reason: Sodium 135 mEq/L (135 mmol/L) is slightly below the normal reference range of 136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L). Sodium is an electrolyte that helps regulate the balance of fluids and acids in the body, as well as the function of nerves and muscles. A high sodium level (hypernatremia) can cause thirst, dry mouth, confusion, seizures, and coma. A low sodium level (hyponatremia) can cause headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, muscle weakness, and confusion.