A male client atends a community support program for mentally impaired and chemical abusing clients. The client tells the practical nurse (PN) that his drugs of choice are cocaine and heroin.

What is the greatest health risk for this client?

Choice A rationale:

Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to treat GERD by reducing stomach acid production. If the client reports not experiencing heartburn after eating lunch, it indicates that the medication is effectively reducing stomach acid and alleviating GERD symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

The ability to swallow food without difficulty is not directly related to the desired effect of pantoprazole. It may be an important aspect of the client's overall condition, but it does not specifically indicate the efficacy of the medication in treating GERD.

Choice C rationale:

Having no difficulty straining for a bowel movement is unrelated to the desired effect of pantoprazole in treating GERD. Pantoprazole does not directly influence bowel movements.

Choice D rationale:

Having a great appetite and feeling hungry are not relevant indicators of the effectiveness of pantoprazole in treating GERD. These statements are more related to the client's appetite and overall well-being rather than the response to the medication.

The correct answer is Choice A. Temperature. Choice A rationale:

The practical nurse (PN) should complete the data collection for temperature first. A large amount of sanguineous drainage on the abdominal incision dressing could indicate possible infection or a change in the client's condition. Elevated temperature may be an early sign of infection, which requires immediate attention and appropriate intervention.

Choice B rationale:

Assessing the pain scale is important, but it can be addressed after completing the data collection for temperature. Pain assessment is essential for providing appropriate pain management, but it is not the most urgent concern when there is a significant amount of drainage from the incision site.

Choice C rationale:

Checking bowel sounds is relevant in postoperative care, but it is not the priority at this moment. Abdominal incision drainage takes precedence as it may indicate a more critical issue that requires immediate attention.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring blood pressure is essential, but it is not the most immediate concern in this scenario. A large amount of sanguineous drainage from the abdominal incision takes precedence over blood pressure monitoring at this time.