The nurse reviews the entries in the medical record.

Admission Assessment 0900:
Client reports, "I'm bloated and my stomach hurts." History of prior illness: Client reports a 3-week history of gnawing abdominal pain. Client states, "It's a burning sensation that radiates to my back. I think I've lost a little weight too." Reports one episode of dark, tarry stool. No vomiting. Client reports pain is worse about 1 hr after eating a meal. Past medical history: Osteoarthritis
Social history: Recently divorced, drinks in moderation (3 to 4 drinks per week), smokes tobacco
Current medications:

Ibuprofen 800 mg three times daily PRN arthritis pain Physical Examination:

General: client appears uncomfortable, diaphoretic

Head, ears, eyes, nose, and throat (HEENT): oropharynx clear, mucous membranes moist and pale
Respiratory: bilateral breath sounds clear

Gastrointestinal: epigastric tenderness to palpation, no rebound tenderness or guarding Neurological: oriented x 3 (person, place, and time)

The nurse is ready to begin. For each potential nursing action, specify if the action is indicated or not indicated for the client.
Nursing Actions

Given the client's symptoms of constant chest pressure that is unrelieved with rest, along with the client's appearance of anxiety, pallor, and diaphoresis, it indicates a high likelihood of an acute coronary event, such as a myocardial infarction (heart attack). In this situation, the nurse should prioritize immediate actions that address the potential cardiac emergency.

Aspirin is an essential medication in the initial management of acute coronary syndrome, including unstable angina and myocardial infarction. It helps to inhibit platelet aggregation and reduce the risk of clot formation in the coronary arteries. The chewable form of aspirin is recommended because it allows for more rapid absorption.

While evaluating extremities for perfusion, pulse volume, and pitting edema is important in assessing the client's overall cardiovascular status, it is not the immediate next step when faced with a suspected acute coronary event.

Securing client consent for coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a relevant step in the management of unstable angina and myocardial infarction, but it is not the immediate action to be taken in the emergency department. The client requires stabilization and initial medical interventions before procedural consent can be obtained.

Placing an indwelling urinary catheter and instituting strict intake and output measurements is not a priority action in this situation. The focus should be on addressing the potential acute coronary event and ensuring the client's cardiac stability. Urinary catheterization and monitoring of intake and output can be considered later, if necessary.

Choice C rationale:

Avoiding consuming foods containing chocolate is important for individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Chocolate contains substances that can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, worsening GERD symptoms. Therefore, the nurse should include this information in the discharge teaching to help the client manage GERD effectively.

Choice A rationale:

Taking antacids that contain mint for heartburn is not recommended. Mint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, similar to chocolate, potentially worsening GERD symptoms. Therefore, clients with GERD should avoid mint-containing products.

Choice B rationale:

Increasing dietary intake of citrus fruits is not advisable for individuals with GERD. Citrus fruits are acidic and can irritate the esophagus, leading to increased reflux symptoms. Clients with GERD should limit or avoid citrus fruits in their diet.

Choice D rationale:

Lying down for 30 minutes after eating a meal is not a recommended practice for individuals with GERD. Instead, clients with GERD should remain upright for at least 2-3 hours after eating to reduce the risk of reflux. Lying down shortly after a meal can worsen symptoms by allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus more easily.