A nurse is caring for a client who has a potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L). Which of the following foods should the nurse recommend as being the best source of potassium?

Rationale for correct choices:

• A change in mood: Mood changes, including depression, irritability, or suicidal thoughts, are serious adverse effects associated with isotretinoin use. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to these side effects, and any mood alterations during treatment warrant immediate provider notification.
• Decreased night vision: Isotretinoin can lead to visual disturbances, including decreased night vision, which may be sudden and irreversible. This adverse effect is rare but serious, and any signs of visual impairment should be reported promptly to prevent injury or permanent damage.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• The development of dry eyes: Dry eyes are a common and expected side effect of isotretinoin, often due to mucous membrane dryness. While uncomfortable, it is not typically dangerous and can usually be managed with lubricating eye drops or supportive care without immediate provider contact.
• Dry mouth: Dry mouth occurs frequently with isotretinoin due to its drying effects on mucosal surfaces. It is bothersome but not dangerous, and clients can manage it with increased fluid intake and sugar-free lozenges. It doesn’t require urgent medical attention unless severe.
• Nausea: Nausea is not a common or concerning side effect of isotretinoin. If persistent or severe, it may require evaluation, but it is not a priority symptom for immediate provider contact unless accompanied by other warning signs like abdominal pain or jaundice.
• Sunburn: Increased photosensitivity is an expected effect of isotretinoin, and clients should be advised to wear sunscreen and protective clothing. Sunburn, while uncomfortable, is not an emergency and does not require immediate medical consultation unless it becomes severe.
• Worsening of acne: An initial acne flare is a known and expected part of isotretinoin therapy as pores begin to purge. This typically improves after several weeks and does not indicate treatment failure or require immediate provider notification unless accompanied by signs of infection.
• Engagement in sexual activity: While not a symptom, sexual activity is significant for female clients due to isotretinoin's teratogenicity. However, since this client has a negative hCG and is not sexually active, this is part of routine risk counselling not an immediate concern unless pregnancy is possible.

Rationale:

A. Initiate fundal massage: Fundal massage is performed after delivery to prevent or manage uterine atony and postpartum hemorrhage. It is not appropriate during active labor, especially before the birth of the fetus.

B. Apply a fetal heart rate monitor: After rupture of membranes, there is an increased risk of umbilical cord prolapse or fetal distress. Continuous fetal monitoring is essential to assess fetal well-being and detect complications promptly.

C. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter: While catheterization may be done later, especially before epidural placement or cesarean delivery, it is not the most urgent action. It does not address immediate risks associated with ruptured membranes.

D. Initiate an oxytocin IV infusion: Oxytocin is used to augment or induce labor, but should not be started without first assessing fetal status. Fetal monitoring is necessary to establish a baseline before initiating uterotonic agents.