A patient with a tracheostomy has difficulty removing excessive, thick mucus from the respiratory tract. The nurse expects that which drug will be ordered to aid in the removal of mucus?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because reporting symptoms that last longer than 2 days is not specific to guaifenesin. This is a general instruction for any patient with a sinus infection, regardless of the medication they are taking.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because reporting clear-colored sputum to the prescriber is not necessary. Clear-colored sputum indicates that the infection is improving and the mucus is thinning. This is a desired effect of guaifenesin, not a problem that needs to be reported.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because guaifenesin does not have sedating effects. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps to break up and expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It does not cause drowsiness or impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.

Choice D reason: This is correct because increasing fluid intake is an important instruction for a patient taking guaifenesin. Fluids help to hydrate the body and thin the mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear the sinuses. Fluids also help to prevent dehydration and dryness of the mucous membranes.

Choice A reason: Rotating the injection sites within the same location for a week is not correct. The client should rotate the injection sites within the same location each day to prevent lipodystrophy and ensure consistent absorption.

Choice B reason: Storing the unopened vials of insulin in the freezer is not correct. The client should store the unopened vials of insulin in the refrigerator, not the freezer, to prevent damage to the insulin.

Choice C reason: Drawing up the regular insulin before the NPH insulin is correct. The client should draw up the clear (regular) insulin before the cloudy (NPH) insulin to prevent contamination of the regular insulin with the NPH insulin.

Choice D reason: Injecting the insulin into the muscle for faster absorption is not correct. The client should inject the insulin into the subcutaneous tissue, not the muscle, to ensure appropriate absorption and prevent hypoglycemia.