The nurse is caring for a patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) who is experiencing changes to their bowel function. What intervention will the nurse implement for this patient?

Choice A reason: Potassium supplements can actually be important for patients on diuretic therapy, especially if they are taking loop diuretics like furosemide, which can cause potassium loss. However, it is important to monitor potassium levels and follow the physician's guidance on supplement use.

Choice B reason: Instructing the patient to take diuretics at bedtime is not recommended. Diuretics should be taken in the morning to avoid frequent urination during the night, which can disrupt sleep.

Choice C reason: Notifying the physician if weight increases by three pounds in one week is a key instruction for patients with heart failure. Rapid weight gain can indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure, requiring prompt medical evaluation and adjustment of treatment.

Choice D reason: Administering diuretics in the morning and notifying the physician of decreased urine output is important, but the focus on notifying the physician about significant weight gain provides a more specific and actionable guideline for managing heart failure.

Choice A reason: Increasing the rate of the transfusion to complete it as quickly as possible is not safe. Blood transfusions should be completed within four hours to prevent complications such as bacterial contamination and hemolysis.

Choice B reason: Stopping the transfusion immediately and documenting the amount infused is the appropriate intervention. Blood products that have been transfusing for more than four hours must be stopped to ensure patient safety and prevent adverse reactions. Documentation ensures that the healthcare team is aware of the situation and can take appropriate follow-up actions.

Choice C reason: Continuing the transfusion and monitoring vital signs every 15 minutes is not appropriate after the four-hour window has passed. The risk of complications increases with prolonged transfusion times.

Choice D reason: Continuing the transfusion at the current rate until it is completed is not safe. The transfusion must be stopped after four hours to prevent potential complications.