A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for spironolactone and reports that they forgot to tell the provider that they take over- the-counter supplements. The nurse should instruct the client to avoid which of the following supplements?

Answer: B

Rationale:

A) Request insertion of a tracheostomy tube: The high-pressure alarm on a ventilator typically indicates increased resistance to airflow within the airway, which may be due to secretions, bronchospasm, or another obstruction. Requesting insertion of a tracheostomy tube is not the first action the nurse should take in response to a high-pressure alarm. Instead, the nurse should assess and manage potential causes of increased airway resistance before considering a change in airway management.

B) Suction the client's airway: Suctioning the client's airway is the priority action in response to a high-pressure alarm on the ventilator. Increased airway pressure may be due to secretions or a mucus plug, leading to airway obstruction. Suctioning helps clear the airway and restore effective ventilation.

C) Tighten the tubing connections: While loose tubing connections can contribute to air leaks and decreased ventilation efficiency, they are not the primary cause of a high-pressure alarm. Tightening tubing connections may be necessary but is not the initial action in response to a high-pressure alarm.

D) Look for a leak in the tube's cuff: Checking for a leak in the endotracheal tube cuff is essential to ensure an adequate seal and prevent aspiration. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take in response to a high-pressure alarm. The priority is to address potential airway obstruction by suctioning the client's airway to remove secretions or other obstructions.

A. Report sudden, persistent headaches: Sudden, persistent headaches can indicate a sickle cell crisis or complications such as stroke. Prompt reporting of these symptoms allows for timely intervention and management of potential complications.
B. Avoid meningococcal immunizations: Immunizations, including meningococcal vaccines, are essential for individuals with sickle cell anemia because they are at increased risk of infections, including those caused by encapsulated bacteria like Neisseria meningitidis. Immunizations help prevent serious infections and their complications.
C. Apply cold compresses to painful areas: Cold compresses are not recommended for individuals with sickle cell anemia. Heat therapy is typically used to alleviate pain associated with vaso-occlusive crises, which are common in sickle cell disease. Heat helps relax muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area, reducing pain and promoting healing.
D. Restrict fluid intake during times of stress: Individuals with sickle cell anemia should maintain adequate hydration at all times, especially during periods of stress or illness. Dehydration can exacerbate sickling of red blood cells and increase the risk of vaso-occlusive crises. Therefore, fluid intake should be encouraged, and restrictions should be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.