A nurse is providing discharge instructions to the parent of a 10-year-old child following a cardiac catheterization. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A reason: Discouraging a high level of fluid intake is incorrect, as hydration is essential for preventing sickle cell crises and reducing blood viscosity. The nurse should encourage the child to drink at least 1.5 times the normal fluid requirement.

Choice B reason: Administering meperidine every 4 hr for pain is incorrect, as meperidine is not recommended for sickle cell pain due to the risk of neurotoxicity and seizures. The nurse should use other opioids such as morphine or hydromorphone for pain management.

Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to painful, swollen joints is incorrect, as cold can cause vasoconstriction and worsen the sickling of red blood cells. The nurse should use warm compresses or heating pads to promote vasodilation and blood flow.

Choice D reason: Observing for indications of hypokalemia is correct, as sickle cell anemia can cause hemolysis and potassium loss. The nurse should monitor the child's serum potassium level and watch for signs of hypokalemia such as muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, and constipation.

Choice A reason: Headache is a sign of oxygen toxicity, which is a condition that occurs when the client receives too much oxygen for a prolonged period of time. Oxygen toxicity can damage the lungs and other organs, and cause symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and respiratory failure. The nurse should instruct the client to report headache and adjust the oxygen flow rate accordingly.

Choice B reason: Dry mouth is not a sign of oxygen toxicity, but it could be a side effect of some medications or a result of dehydration. The nurse should instruct the client to drink plenty of fluids and use a humidifier or a nasal saline spray to moisten the mucous membranes.

Choice C reason: Increased appetite is not a sign of oxygen toxicity, but it could be a positive outcome of oxygen therapy, as it indicates improved oxygenation and metabolism. The nurse should encourage the client to eat a balanced diet and monitor their weight and nutritional status.

Choice D reason: Nausea is not a sign of oxygen toxicity, but it could be a side effect of some medications or a symptom of another condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or peptic ulcer disease (PUD). The nurse should instruct the client to take their medications as prescribed and avoid foods that trigger nausea, such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods.