The nurse is preparing a medication for a patient and observes the date of expiration on the vial occurred 2 months ago.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale

Engaging in conversation with the patient during wound care can provide emotional support by distracting the patient from the pain and discomfort associated with the procedure. It also helps to build a therapeutic relationship, which is crucial in the healing process.

Choice B rationale

While ensuring the patient’s room is kept tidy by support staff is important for maintaining a clean and safe environment, it does not directly provide emotional support to the patient.

Choice C rationale

Keeping the patient’s family informed about his condition can provide reassurance and reduce anxiety, but it does not directly provide emotional support to the patient.

Choice D rationale

Rotating the nursing staff can provide the patient with varied interactions, but it may not necessarily provide emotional support. Consistency in care providers can often be more beneficial in building trust and rapport.

Choice A rationale

The hospital pharmacist is the most appropriate resource for a nurse to consult for information on medication compatibility. Pharmacists have specialized knowledge and access to resources that provide information on drug interactions, including those between ampicillin and gentamicin sulfate. They can provide accurate and up-to-date information on whether these two medications can be safely administered together.

Choice B rationale

While the health care provider prescribes the medication, they may not have the most current or detailed information on drug compatibility. It is the pharmacist’s role to have this specialized knowledge.

Choice C rationale

Medication sales representatives are primarily focused on promoting their company’s products. They may not have comprehensive knowledge of drug interactions, especially between drugs from different companies.

Choice D rationale

The nurse manager oversees the nursing staff and coordinates care, but they may not have specific knowledge about all drug interactions. The hospital pharmacist is the most appropriate resource for this information.