The hospital's Emergency Operations Committee is working on their disaster plan. In which components should nurses be included? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY.

Choice A reason: "Repeat dose in 1 hour for unrelieved headachE." This instruction is incorrect because sumatriptan should not be taken more than twice in 24 hours.

Choice B reason: "Chew tablet well before swallowinG." This instruction is unnecessary because sumatriptan tablets are meant to be swallowed whole with water.

Choice C reason: "If you experience chest pain, call your physician immediately." This instruction is important because sumatriptan can cause coronary vasospasm, which can lead to angina or myocardial infarction.

Choice D reason: "Take daily to prevent headaches." This instruction is inappropriate because sumatriptan is used to treat acute migraine attacks, not to prevent them.

When providing instructions to a client with a below-the-knee cast for a compound fracture of the left ankle, it is important to prioritize their safety and proper care of the cast. The instruction to never scratch under the cast is crucial for preventing complications and maintaining the integrity of the cast.

Let's evaluate the other options:

a) Apply a cold pack to any "hot spots" on the cast.

Applying a cold pack to any "hot spots" on the cast may help alleviate discomfort or itching, but it is not the highest priority instruction. Preventing scratching under the cast is more important to avoid skin damage or infection.

b) Keep the left leg in a dependent position.
Keeping the left leg in a dependent position (hanging down) is not the appropriate instruction for a client with a below-the-knee cast. It is generally recommended to elevate the injured limb to reduce swelling and promote proper blood flow. Elevating the leg would involve keeping it raised above the level of the heart.

c) Expect some increase in pain.
While it is possible for the client to experience some increase in pain after the application of a cast, this instruction alone is not comprehensive or specific enough for proper discharge education. Providing information about pain management strategies or when to seek medical atention for excessive pain would be more appropriate.

In summary, when discharging a client with a compound fracture of the left ankle and a below-the-knee cast, the practical nurse (PN) should provide the instruction to never scratch under the cast. This helps prevent complications and maintain the integrity of the cast, promoting proper healing of the fracture.