A nurse administers an antihypertensive medication to a patient at the scheduled time of 0900. The nursing assistant then reports to the nurse that the patient's blood pressure was low when it was taken at 0830. The patient begins to complain of feeling dizzy and light-headed. The blood pressure is re-checked and it has dropped even lower. The nurse first made an error in what phase of the nursing process?

Choice A reason: Assessment is the first and most important phase of the nursing process, as it involves collecting and analyzing data about the patient's health status, needs, and preferences. The nurse should have assessed the patient's blood pressure before administering the antihypertensive medication, as it could have been contraindicated or required a dosage adjustment. By failing to do so, the nurse put the patient at risk of hypotension and its complications.

Choice B reason: Planning is the second phase of the nursing process, in which the nurse sets goals and outcomes for the patient's care and selects appropriate interventions. The nurse did not make an error in this phase, as the administration of the antihypertensive medication was part of the plan of care for the patient with hypertension.

Choice C reason: Diagnosis is the third phase of the nursing process, in which the nurse identifies the patient's actual or potential health problems based on the assessment data. The nurse did not make an error in this phase, as the diagnosis of hypertension was accurate and supported by the patient's history and vital signs.

Choice D reason: Evaluation is the fourth and final phase of the nursing process, in which the nurse measures the patient's progress and outcomes and modifies the plan of care as needed. The nurse did not make an error in this phase, as the re-checking of the blood pressure and the recognition of the patient's symptoms were part of the evaluation process. However, the nurse should have also notified the provider and implemented interventions to treat the hypotension.

Choice A reason: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health. The main source of vitamin D is exposure to sunlight, which triggers the skin to produce it. The nurse should advise the client to spend at least 15 minutes outdoors every day, preferably in the morning or evening, when the sun is not too strong. The client should also wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn and skin damage.

Choice B reason: Reducing the amount of cereal in the diet is not a good recommendation for increasing vitamin D intake. Cereal is often fortified with vitamin D and other nutrients, such as iron and folic acid. The nurse should encourage the client to choose cereals that are high in vitamin D and low in sugar and fat. The client should also consume other foods that are rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, cheese, and mushrooms.

Choice C reason: Increasing intake of dietary calcium is important for preventing and treating osteoporosis, but it does not directly affect vitamin D intake. Calcium is a mineral that helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth. The nurse should recommend the client to consume foods that are high in calcium, such as dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, and tofu. The client should also take a calcium supplement if needed, as prescribed by the provider.

Choice D reason: Adding a regular exercise routine is beneficial for improving overall health and well-being, but it does not directly influence vitamin D intake. Exercise helps strengthen the muscles and bones, prevent falls and fractures, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The nurse should suggest the client to engage in moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day, three times a week. The client should choose exercises that are appropriate for their age and fitness level, such as walking, swimming, or yoga.