A nurse is caring for a client who has cardiomyopathy and is experiencing sensory overload. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A Reason:

Elevate the head of the client's bed for 1 hr. after the feeding is appropriate. This action helps minimize the risk of aspiration. Elevating the head of the bed (typically at least 30 to 45 degrees) can reduce the chance of reflux and aspiration of the feeding solution into the lungs. This position should ideally be maintained for about 1 hour after the feeding to aid digestion and reduce the risk of complications.

Choice B Reason:

Administering the feeding solution at a cold temperature is inappropriate. Feeding solutions are generally administered at room temperature or slightly warmed to prevent discomfort and minimize the risk of altering the client's core body temperature. Cold temperatures can cause discomfort or cramping and might affect the absorption of the nutrients. Therefore, administering the feeding solution at a cold temperature is not recommended.

Choice C Reason:

Rotating the jejunostomy tube once per day is inappropriate. Rotating the jejunostomy tube is not typically part of routine care. Tube rotation can cause discomfort, irritation, and potential injury to the gastrointestinal tract. Tubes should be secured properly to prevent movement but not rotated unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider for a particular reason, such as checking for proper tube placement.

Choice D Reason:

Flushing the tube with 90 ml of sterile water before and after the feeding is inappropriate.

Flushing the tube with sterile water before and after the feeding helps ensure the patency of the tube and prevents clogging. It's a standard procedure to clear the tube and maintain its function

Choice A Reason:

Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, is typically associated with liver dysfunction or conditions affecting the breakdown of red blood cells, not directly linked to Cushing's syndrome. While some liver abnormalities can be seen in Cushing's syndrome due to metabolic changes, jaundice is not a typical manifestation of this condition.

Choice B Reason:

Muscle rigidity is more commonly associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease, dystonia, or certain muscle disorders. In Cushing's syndrome, muscle weakness due to protein breakdown and muscle wasting is a more expected finding rather than muscle rigidity.

Choice C Reason:

Weight loss is incorrect. Weight gain, particularly in the central part of the body (trunk) and face (creating a "moon face"), is a more common characteristic of Cushing's syndrome. The excess cortisol often leads to increased fat deposits, especially in these areas, rather than weight loss.

Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, either due to the body producing too much cortisol or from long-term use of corticosteroid medications. Considering this condition, the nurse should expect the following finding:

Choice D Reason:

Easily bruised is correct. Excess cortisol can lead to the thinning of the skin and weakening of blood vessels, making individuals with Cushing's syndrome prone to easy bruising. Other common findings associated with Cushing's syndrome include weight gain (especially in the trunk and face), muscle weakness, high blood pressure, fatigue, and changes in skin such as thinning and purple stretch marks.