A nurse is providing care for a client who experienced a myocardial infarction prior to a cardiac arrest. Which of the following laboratory tests will identify early injury to the cardiac muscle?

The correct answer is D. Remind the client to use the incentive spirometer.

Choice A rationale:

Observing the position of the suspended weight is beyond the scope of practice for assistive personnel (AP). This task requires assessment skills to ensure proper alignment and functioning of the traction system, which is the responsibility of the nurse.

Choice B rationale:

Checking the client’s pedal pulse on the right leg involves assessment and clinical judgment to evaluate perfusion and detect potential complications such as impaired circulation. This is not a task that can be delegated to AP.

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client to describe her pain requires assessment and interpretation of subjective data, which falls under the nurse's scope of practice. Pain assessment is a critical nursing function.

Choice D rationale:

Reminding the client to use the incentive spirometer is a non-assessment task that involves reinforcing previously taught instructions. This is appropriate to delegate to assistive personnel, as it does not require clinical judgment.

Choice A reason:

Eating 1 g/kg of protein per day is the appropriate recommendation. When providing discharge teaching to a client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who is receiving haemodialysis, the nurse should include the instruction to eat an appropriate amount of protein, which is usually recommended at a specific daily intake based on the client's weight.

Clients with CKD often have dietary restrictions, including limiting protein intake to reduce the workload on the kidneys. However, protein intake is still necessary for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. The recommended protein intake for clients with CKD undergoing haemodialysis is typically around 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.

Choice B reason:

Drink at least 3 L of fluid daily. Clients receiving haemodialysis typically have fluid restrictions, as impaired kidney function can lead to fluid retention and electrolyte imbalances. The specific fluid allowance will be determined by the healthcare provider based on the client's individual needs, and it may be significantly less than 3 L per day.

Choice Doption

Take magnesium hydroxide for ingestion. Magnesium hydroxide is a laxative and antacid used to relieve constipation and heartburn. It is not typically prescribed for clients with chronic kidney disease, especially without proper evaluation of their kidney function and overall medical condition.

Choice Coption:

C. Consume foods high in potassium.

Clients with chronic kidney disease, especially that undergoing haemodialysis, often need to restrict potassium intake. Impaired kidney function can lead to the build-up of potassium in the blood, which can be harmful. Therefore, it is essential for clients with CKD to avoid or limit foods high in potassium.