A client with Addison's disease started taking hydrocortisone in a divided daily dose last week. It is most important for the nurse to monitor which serum laboratory value?

Choice A reason: Reviewing written and verbal instructions for a reduced sodium diet is not directly related to the management of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). While a healthy diet can contribute to overall well-being, dietary sodium does not have a significant impact on intraocular pressure or glaucoma management. Therefore, this intervention does not directly address the client's primary condition of POAG.

Choice B reason: Teaching strategies for aseptic administration of the eye drops is a critical intervention for clients with POAG. Proper administration of ophthalmic drops is essential to avoid contamination and infection. Aseptic techniques include washing hands before administering the drops, avoiding touching the dropper tip to any surface (including the eye), and ensuring that the dropper cap is replaced tightly after use. These measures help maintain the sterility of the medication and prevent complications such as eye infections, which can exacerbate the client's condition.

Choice C reason: Describing how the use of the eye drops will help improve peripheral vision is not entirely accurate in the context of POAG. The primary goal of ophthalmic drops for POAG is to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve, thereby preserving the remaining vision. These drops do not typically improve peripheral vision that has already been lost. Educating the client with accurate information about the purpose and benefits of the drops helps set realistic expectations and encourages adherence to the treatment regimen.

Choice D reason: Teaching the client to apply pressure over the inner eye corner (punctal occlusion) after administering eye drops is an important intervention. Punctal occlusion helps prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct and being absorbed systemically. This technique increases the contact time of the medication with the eye, enhancing its effectiveness and reducing potential systemic side effects. Clients should be instructed to gently press the inner corner of the eye for a few minutes after instilling the drops to ensure maximum benefit.

Choice E reason: Explaining the need to continue eye drops for the rest of their life is essential for clients with POAG. Glaucoma is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management to control intraocular pressure and prevent progression of the disease. Discontinuing the medication can lead to elevated intraocular pressures and irreversible vision loss. Clients should understand the importance of adherence to their prescribed treatment regimen and the lifelong commitment to managing their condition to preserve their vision and quality of life.

Choice A reason: Administering a PRN dose of an antispasmodic agent can help relieve bladder spasms that often occur after TURP, but it does not address the immediate issue of blood clots blocking the drainage tubing. The primary concern is to ensure the patency of the catheter and proper drainage.

Choice B reason: Increasing the flow of the bladder irrigation is the best initial action. By increasing the flow, the nurse can help flush out the blood clots from the drainage tubing and ensure that the catheter remains patent. This action directly addresses the problem of blocked drainage and prevents further complications.

Choice C reason: Measuring the client's intake and output is important for overall monitoring, but it does not directly address the immediate concern of blood clots in the drainage tubing. Ensuring proper drainage is crucial to prevent complications such as bladder distention and further bleeding.

Choice D reason: Providing additional oral fluid intake is beneficial for maintaining hydration and promoting urine output, but it does not solve the problem of blood clots in the drainage tubing. The primary focus should be on ensuring the catheter's patency through irrigation.