On admission, the healthcare provider prescribes a broad spectrum antibiotic for a client with a gram-negative infection. Before administering the first dose, it is most important for the nurse to implement which prescription?

Choice A reason: Determining when the last dose was administered is important to ensure safe and effective pain management, but it is not the first action that the nurse should implement. The nurse should first assess the client's pain level and intensity before deciding on the appropriate dose and frequency of pain medication.

Choice B reason: Encouraging the client to use diversional thoughts to manage pain is a non-pharmacological intervention that can help reduce pain perception and anxiety, but it is not sufficient to address severe or acute pain. The nurse should first assess the client's pain level and intensity before suggesting any complementary or alternative therapies.

Choice C reason: Asking the client to rate the current level of pain using a pain scale is the first action that the nurse should implement, as it can help quantify and communicate the client's pain experience and guide the nurse's decision on pain medication. The nurse should use a valid and reliable pain scale that is appropriate for the client's age, cognitive ability, and language preference.

Choice D reason: Reviewing the history for a past use of recreational drugs is relevant to assess the client's risk of addiction or tolerance to pain medication, but it is not the first action that the nurse should implement. The nurse should first assess the client's pain level and intensity before considering any factors that may influence pain management.

Choice A reason: Diarrhea is a common side effect of metoclopramide, but it is not life-threatening or indicative of a serious reaction. The nurse should monitor the client's fluid and electrolyte status and provide supportive care.

Choice B reason: Involuntary movements, such as twitching, grimacing, or spasms, are signs of a rare but serious condition called tardive dyskinesia, which can be caused by metoclopramide. This condition can be irreversible and disabling, so the nurse should report it immediately and stop the medication.

Choice C reason: Nausea is the reason why the client is receiving metoclopramide, which is an antiemetic drug. If the client still experiences nausea, the nurse should assess the effectiveness of the medication and notify the prescriber if needed.

Choice D reason: Unusual irritability is not a common or serious side effect of metoclopramide. It may be related to other factors, such as stress, pain, or fatigue. The nurse should provide emotional support and reassurance to the client.