A nurse is assisting with the care of a client.

• At 1600, the nurse administered an antibiotic as prescribed.
• At 1630, the nurse noted that the client’s bilateral breath sounds were clear and present throughout.
• The client reports itching on the chest and has urticaria over the chest and trunk.
• The client states they are having difficulty swallowing and feel as if there is a lump in their throat.
• The nurse hears bilateral breath sounds with scattered wheezing throughout.

What should the nurse do next?

Choice A rationale
During the fluid resuscitation phase of burn management, the primary goal is to restore circulating volume and preserve vital organ and tissue perfusion. One of the most effective methods for assessing the results of fluid resuscitation is monitoring urine output. A urine output greater than 0.5 mL/kg/hr is generally considered an indicator of adequate fluid resuscitation.
Choice B rationale
While clear bilateral breath sounds are an important part of overall patient assessment, they are not the best method for assessing the results of fluid resuscitation in burn management.
Choice C rationale
Serum hemoglobin is not the best indicator for assessing the results of fluid resuscitation in burn management. While it can provide information about the patient’s overall health and blood volume, it does not directly reflect the adequacy of fluid resuscitation.
Choice D rationale
A heart rate of 122/min could indicate a response to pain, anxiety, or inadequate fluid resuscitation. However, it is not the best method for assessing the results of fluid resuscitation in burn management.

Choice A rationale
Alendronate should be taken at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day with plain water only. This is because other beverages (including mineral water), food, and some medications are likely to reduce the absorption of alendronate.
Choice B rationale
Alendronate should not be taken with milk. This is because the calcium in the milk can bind to the alendronate, preventing it from being absorbed into the body and therefore making it less effective. This is why the patient’s statement indicates a need for further instruction.
Choice C rationale
After taking alendronate, the patient should not lie down and should remain fully upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes. This is to help alendronate reach the stomach more quickly and also to reduce the risk of irritation to the esophagus. Therefore, sitting up and reading the morning paper after taking alendronate is a correct practice.
Choice D rationale
Regular bone density tests are necessary while taking alendronate. This is to monitor the drug’s effectiveness in increasing bone mass and to adjust the treatment plan as necessary. Therefore, the patient’s statement is correct.