The nurse is caring for a patient on contact precautions. Which action will be most appropriate to prevent the spread of disease?

B. Post NO SMOKING signs in a prominent location in the home:
Oxygen supports combustion, making smoking or exposure to open flames highly dangerous in an oxygen-enriched environment. Posting NO SMOKING signs serves as a reminder to everyone in the household to avoid smoking or using open flames near the oxygen source.

C. Notify local fire department:
It's crucial to inform the local fire department that a client is using home oxygen therapy. This ensures that emergency responders are aware of the presence of oxygen in the home in case of a fire or emergency situation.

E. Check the tops of the ears for skin breakdown:
The nasal cannula can cause pressure on the tops of the ears, potentially leading to skin breakdown, especially with prolonged use. Checking for skin breakdown and providing appropriate skin care helps prevent complications and ensures the client's comfort.

A. Verify the oxygen flow rate every other day:
While it's essential to ensure that the oxygen equipment is functioning properly and that the prescribed flow rate is appropriate for the client's needs, checking it every other day may not be necessary unless there are specific concerns or changes in the client's condition.

D. Apply petroleum ointment to nares if they become dry and irritated:
While it's common for the nasal passages to become dry with oxygen therapy, applying petroleum ointment may not be recommended without consulting the healthcare provider first, as it can interfere with oxygen delivery and increase the risk of infection.

A) Calcium gluconate 1.5 grams IV now: Calcium gluconate is administered to counteract the effects of hyperkalemia by stabilizing the myocardial cell membrane. It does not lower potassium levels but helps protect the heart from potential dysrhythmias associated with high potassium levels.

B) Dextrose 50% injection (50ml) IV push now: Dextrose 50% injection, also known as D50W, is administered to temporarily shift potassium from the extracellular space into the intracellular space, thereby lowering serum potassium levels. It is commonly used in combination with insulin to facilitate the movement of potassium into cells.

C) Colace 100 mg PO now: Colace is a stool softener and does not affect serum potassium levels. It is not indicated for the treatment of hyperkalemia.

D) Regular insulin 10 units IV now: Regular insulin is administered with dextrose to facilitate the movement of potassium from the extracellular space into the intracellular space. Insulin stimulates the cellular uptake of glucose, which in turn drives potassium into cells along with glucose.

E) Potassium chloride 20 mEq orally now: Potassium chloride is contraindicated in the treatment of hyperkalemia as it would further increase serum potassium levels. It is typically used to supplement potassium in clients with hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia.