The nurse is providing postoperative care for a male client who had a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) 4 hours ago and has continuous irrigation.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take to monitor the client for fluid overload?

Choice A rationale

Avoiding exposure to cold climates is not specific to thalassemia prevention. While cold environments may exacerbate general vasoconstriction, they do not influence the genetic and hematologic basis of thalassemia symptoms.

Choice B rationale

Increasing fluid intake does not directly address thalassemia pathophysiology. While hydration is vital, it does not correct the primary anemia or the compromised oxygen delivery stemming from abnormal hemoglobin synthesis.

Choice C rationale

Iron and vitamin B12-rich foods are beneficial for conditions involving deficiency anemia. However, thalassemia involves a genetic defect in hemoglobin chains, so excess iron could even result in iron overload complications.

Choice D rationale

Medications and substances that exacerbate hemolysis, such as sulfonamides or antimalarials, should be avoided in thalassemia. Awareness and prevention of exposure are key to minimizing symptoms and complications in affected individuals. .

Choice A rationale

Referring the client to see an optometrist is inappropriate because visual disturbances can be a sign of digoxin toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention rather than routine visual examination. Toxicity manifests due to elevated serum digoxin levels, with symptoms including blurred vision and yellow-green halos. Normal digoxin range is 0.5-2.0 ng/mL.

Choice B rationale

Asking if the client wears glasses or contact lenses does not address the root cause of visual disturbances, which is likely linked to digoxin toxicity. Such queries delay prompt medical intervention needed to evaluate and manage the client’s condition. Ocular aids are unrelated to pharmacological adverse effects.

Choice C rationale

Obtaining a prescription for stat laboratory tests is essential for assessing serum digoxin levels and electrolytes, particularly potassium, as hypokalemia increases sensitivity to digoxin toxicity. Prompt identification of toxicity allows timely interventions, including discontinuation of digoxin or administration of antidotes like Digibind.

Choice D rationale

Obtaining the client’s blood pressure is irrelevant in this scenario, as visual disturbances are not indicative of blood pressure abnormalities but rather digoxin toxicity. Immediate focus should be on confirming and managing toxicity through laboratory evaluation and clinical assessment.