A client is started on furosemide 80 mg every morning.
Which lab result needs to be reported to the health care provider?

The needle gauge size for subcutaneous injections should be between 25 and 31, depending on the patient’s size and the viscosity of the medication.

A smaller gauge number means a larger diameter needle, which can cause more pain and tissue damage.

Choice A is wrong because 8 is too large for subcutaneous injections and can cause bleeding and bruising.

Choice B is wrong because 20 is also too large for subcutaneous injections and can cause similar complications as choice A.

Choice C is wrong because 21 is still too large for subcutaneous injections and can cause discomfort and injury to the patient.

The needle length for subcutaneous injections should be between ½ inch and ⅝ inch, depending on the amount of subcutaneous tissue present. The nurse should pinch the skin and insert the needle at a 45-degree angle to ensure proper delivery of the medication.

Take this medication at least 30 minutes before ingesting any food or medication.

This is because alendronate (Fosamax) is a bisphosphonate that works by inhibiting the breakdown and reabsorption of bone. However, it has a very low bioavailability, which means that only a small amount of the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream when taken orally. Therefore, taking it with food or other medications can interfere with its absorption and reduce its effectiveness.

The other choices are wrong because:

A. Chew the tablet well and report any difficulty swallowing. This is wrong because alendronate tablets should not be chewed or crushed, but swallowed whole with a full glass of plain water. Chewing or crushing the tablets can increase the risk of irritation or damage to the esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach). Difficulty swallowing is a possible side effect of alendronate and should be reported to the doctor, but it is not an instruction for taking the medication.

B. Take the medication with six to eight ounces of milk. This is wrong because milk contains calcium, which can bind to alendronate and prevent its absorption. Alendronate should not be taken with any beverages other than plain water.

C. Lie down for 15 to 30 minutes after taking the medication. This is wrong because lying down after taking alendronate can increase the risk of esophageal irritation or

ulceration. Alendronate should be taken in the morning, at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything, and the person should remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after taking it.

Normal ranges for bone density are expressed as T-scores, which compare a person’s bone density to that of a healthy young adult of the same sex. A T-score of -1.0 or above is normal, a T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 indicates low bone density (osteopenia), and a T-score of -2.5 or below indicates osteoporosis.