The healthcare provider prescribes enoxaparin sodium 80 mg SUBQ three times daily. The nurse is preparing a preloaded 1 mL syringe labeled “Enoxaparin sodium injection, USP 60 mg/0.6 mL.”

How many mL should the nurse administer? (Enter numeric value only. If rounding is required, round to the nearest tenth.)

Choice A reason: Denying having coughing spells indicates that the antitussive medication benzonatate is effective. Benzonatate works by numbing the throat and lungs, reducing the cough reflex. This means that if the client is no longer experiencing coughing spells, the medication is performing its intended function.

Choice B reason: Being able to sleep through the night can be an indirect indicator of the medication’s effectiveness, but it is not as specific as denying coughing spells. While improved sleep might result from reduced coughing, it could also be influenced by other factors such as overall improvement in the client’s condition or the use of other medications.

Choice C reason: Expectorating bronchial secretions is not a direct indicator of the effectiveness of benzonatate. Benzonatate is an antitussive, meaning it suppresses the cough reflex rather than promoting the expulsion of mucus. Therefore, expectorating bronchial secretions would not be a primary measure of this medication’s effectiveness.

Choice D reason: Reporting reduced nasal discharge is also not a direct indicator of the effectiveness of benzonatate. This medication specifically targets the cough reflex and does not have a significant impact on nasal discharge. Reduced nasal discharge could be due to other factors or treatments.

Choice A reason:

A CT scan performed six months earlier does not typically require follow-up unless there were specific findings or complications from the previous scan. The timing of the previous scan is not a contraindication for a new CT scan with contrast. However, it is always good practice to review previous imaging results to compare and assess any changes.

Choice B reason:

Metformin hydrochloride is a medication used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is important to follow up on this information because metformin can interact with the contrast dye used in CT scans. The combination can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious complication. Therefore, it is crucial to assess kidney function and possibly withhold metformin before and after the procedure to reduce this risk.

Choice C reason:

A report of the client’s sobriety for the last five years is generally a positive aspect of their medical history and does not require follow-up in the context of a CT scan with contrast. Sobriety does not impact the safety or efficacy of the contrast dye used in the scan.

Choice D reason:

A metal hip prosthesis placed twenty years ago is relevant information but does not typically require follow-up before a CT scan. Unlike MRI, where metal implants can cause issues, CT scans are generally safe for patients with metal prostheses. However, the presence of metal can sometimes affect the quality of the images, so it is important for the radiologist to be aware of it.