A client with plaque psoriasis receives a new prescription for betamethasone valerate lotion. Which instruction should the nurse include in client teaching?

A) Apply the lotion to plaques on the face: Betamethasone valerate lotion is a potent corticosteroid that is generally not recommended for use on the face due to the risk of adverse effects, such as skin thinning and irritation. Therefore, applying the lotion to plaques on the face is not advisable.
B) Rub the lotion into the area twice daily for 5 weeks: While it is essential to follow the prescribed frequency and duration of medication use, specific instructions for betamethasone valerate lotion may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the healthcare provider's recommendations. This instruction lacks specificity and may not be accurate for all clients.
C) Use gloves to rub the lotion into the area: While wearing gloves may be necessary when applying certain topical medications to prevent contact dermatitis or to protect the hands, it is not typically required when using betamethasone valerate lotion. This instruction may be unnecessary and could lead to unnecessary waste of gloves.
D) Massage the lotion into the psoriasis plaques: This instruction is appropriate because it ensures proper absorption of the medication into the affected skin. Massaging the lotion gently into the psoriasis plaques helps enhance its penetration and effectiveness in treating the condition.

Answer: B. Administer a second dose of naloxone.

Rationale:

A) Prepare to assist with chest tube insertion:
Chest tube insertion is not relevant in this situation. A chest tube is typically used for conditions like pneumothorax or pleural effusion, not opioid-induced respiratory depression. The immediate concern here is the opioid overdose and the need for further naloxone administration to reverse the opioid effects, not the placement of a chest tube.

B) Administer a second dose of naloxone:
Administering a second dose of naloxone is the most appropriate action. Naloxone is a short-acting opioid antagonist, and its effects can wear off before the opioids have fully cleared from the client’s system. Given that the client’s respiratory rate is severely depressed and the oxygen saturation is dangerously low, another dose of naloxone is necessary to reverse the opioid's effects and restore adequate breathing. Immediate action is required to prevent further hypoxia.

C) Determine Glasgow Coma Scale score:
While assessing the client’s level of consciousness using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is important, it is not the immediate priority in this situation. The client’s low respiratory rate and oxygen saturation indicate a critical need for immediate treatment to improve ventilation and oxygenation. Administering naloxone should take precedence over neurological assessment.

D) Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR):
While the client’s respiratory depression is severe, initiating CPR may not yet be necessary if the client still has a pulse. Administering naloxone can potentially reverse the respiratory depression and prevent the need for CPR. If the client's condition continues to decline despite naloxone administration, CPR may become necessary later, but the first step is to administer a second dose of naloxone to restore breathing.