A nurse is caring for a client who has an abdominal surgical incision and notes an evisceration. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

The correct answer is **a. Observe for bruising of the skin.**

Choice A rationale: Observing for bruising of the skin is an appropriate nursing intervention when caring for a client receiving alteplase (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator or rt-PA), a thrombolytic medication used to dissolve blood clots. Alteplase can increase the risk of bleeding, including bruising, as it works to break down the clot. Closely monitoring the client for any signs of bleeding or bruising is crucial to identify and manage potential complications.

Choice B rationale: Administering medications intramuscularly is not recommended when a client is receiving alteplase. Intramuscular injections can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided, as alteplase can impair the body's ability to form clots and stop bleeding.

Choice C rationale: Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours is not the appropriate frequency for a client receiving alteplase. Vital signs should be monitored more frequently, typically every 30 minutes to 1 hour, to closely observe for any changes that may indicate bleeding or other complications.

Choice D rationale: Providing a diet low in protein is not a necessary intervention for a client receiving alteplase. Alteplase works by targeting the blood clot and does not require specific dietary modifications. The focus should be on monitoring for bleeding and managing any potential complications, rather than adjusting the client's diet.

Choice A rationale:

Depression commonly coexists with eating disorders. Patients with eating disorders often experience profound sadness, hopelessness, and a distorted body image, leading to depressive symptoms. Addressing both conditions simultaneously is crucial for effective treatment.

Choice B rationale:

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) frequently accompanies eating disorders. Obsessive thoughts about body weight, shape, and food intake are common in individuals with eating disorders. These obsessions can lead to compulsive behaviors, such as strict dietary rules or excessive exercise, reinforcing the connection between eating disorders and OCD.

Choice C rationale:

Schizophrenia is not typically considered a comorbidity of eating disorders. Schizophrenia involves distorted thinking, hallucinations, and impaired emotional responses, which are distinct from the symptoms of eating disorders. While it's essential to assess patients comprehensively, schizophrenia is not a common comorbidity of eating disorders.

Choice D rationale:

Breathing-related sleep disorder is not a direct comorbidity of eating disorders. However, individuals with severe eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa, may experience complications like sleep apnea due to extreme weight loss. While this is a potential issue, it is not a direct comorbidity of eating disorders for all patients.

Choice E rationale:

Anxiety often coexists with eating disorders. Anxiety about body weight, shape, and food intake is a significant concern for individuals with eating disorders. This anxiety can further perpetuate disordered eating behaviors, creating a cycle that is challenging to break without addressing the underlying anxiety.