A nurse is caring for a 2-year-old toddler. Which of the following food choices should the nurse recommend to promote independence in eating?

Choice A rationale:

Storing unused patches in the refrigerator is not necessary for transdermal scopolamine patches. Refrigeration is not a requirement for their storage.

Choice B rationale:

Applying the patch prior to traveling is the correct choice. Transdermal scopolamine patches are used to prevent motion sickness. Applying the patch before the journey allows the medication to be absorbed before exposure to motion, ensuring its effectiveness during travel.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the patch on the upper arm is a specific and correct instruction for applying transdermal scopolamine patches. The patch should be placed on a clean, dry, and hairless area of the skin, preferably behind the ear or on the upper arm.

Choice D rationale:

Replacing a dislodged patch onto the same location is incorrect. If the patch becomes dislodged, it should be replaced with a new patch on a different, clean, and dry area of the skin. Reapplying a dislodged patch to the same spot may result in uneven absorption and reduced effectiveness.

Choice A rationale:

Changing the inner cannula on a tracheostomy is within the legal scope of practice for registered nurses. Nurses are trained to perform tracheostomy care, including changing the inner cannula. This procedure is within the nursing scope of practice and does not require a physician's intervention.

Choice B rationale:

Inserting a tunneled central venous catheter (such as a Hickman line) is a specialized procedure that generally falls under the scope of practice for advanced practice nurses (such as nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists) or physicians. RNs typically do not have the required training or authority to perform this invasive procedure.

Choice C rationale:

Irrigation of an external ear canal is within the legal scope of practice for registered nurses. Ear irrigation is a common nursing procedure used to remove impacted cerumen (earwax) and foreign bodies from the ear canal. Nurses are trained to perform this procedure safely and effectively.

Choice D rationale:

Administering blood products, including platelet transfusions, is within the legal scope of practice for an RN. RNs are responsible for preparing, verifying, and administering blood products according to institutional policies and procedures. This includes monitoring the patient during and after the transfusion for any adverse reactions.