A client is receiving baclofen for the management of symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. To evaluate the effectiveness of this medication, what does the nurse assess?

Choice A Reason:

Telling his wife what the client needs is not the most effective discharge action. While it is important for the wife to understand the client’s needs, this approach is too passive and does not actively engage the client or his wife in the care process. Effective management of Parkinson’s disease requires active participation from both the client and the caregiver to ensure adherence to the care plan and to address any concerns or preferences they may have.

Choice B Reason:

Setting up visitations by a home health nurse can be beneficial, but it is not the most effective discharge action on its own. Home health nurses can provide valuable support and monitoring, but the success of the management plan also depends on the involvement and commitment of the client and his wife. Without their active participation, the care plan may not be fully effective.

Choice C Reason:

Involving the client and his wife in developing a plan of care is the most effective discharge action. This approach ensures that both the client and his wife are fully engaged in the care process, understand the management plan, and are more likely to adhere to it. Collaborative care planning allows for the consideration of the client’s and caregiver’s preferences, needs, and concerns, leading to a more personalized and effective care plan. This active involvement can also empower the client and his wife, improving their confidence in managing the disease.

Choice D Reason:

Writing up a detailed plan of care according to standards is important, but it is not the most effective discharge action if done in isolation. A standardized care plan may not address the unique needs and preferences of the client and his wife. Without their involvement in the development of the plan, there may be a lack of understanding or commitment to the care plan, reducing its effectiveness. Personalizing the care plan through active involvement of the client and his wife is crucial for successful management.

Choice A Reason:

Aspirating the stomach contents is essential to ensure the nasogastric tube is correctly positioned in the stomach. This step helps verify that the tube has not migrated and is safe for medication administration. If the aspirate is not obtained, further steps should be taken to confirm the tube’s placement.

Choice B Reason:

Checking the residual volume is important to assess the stomach’s contents and ensure that the patient is tolerating the feedings or medications. High residual volumes may indicate delayed gastric emptying or other gastrointestinal issues. This information helps guide the timing and amount of medication administration.

Choice C Reason:

Removing the tube and placing it in the other nostril is not a standard practice before administering medication. This action is unnecessary and could cause discomfort or complications for the patient. The focus should be on verifying the tube’s placement and ensuring it is functioning correctly.

Choice D Reason:

Testing the stomach contents for a pH indicating acidity is a reliable method to confirm the nasogastric tube’s placement. Gastric contents typically have a pH of 1 to 5, indicating the tube is in the stomach. This step helps ensure the safe administration of medications.

Choice E Reason:

Turning off the suction to the nasogastric tube is necessary before administering medications. Suction can interfere with the absorption of the medication and may cause the medication to be removed from the stomach before it has a chance to take effect. Therefore, it is important to turn off the suction temporarily during medication administration.