A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetes insipidus and has had a urinary output of 3,000 mL in the past 12 hr. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer to the client?

A. Chest tube with a drainage system: A chest tube is typically used for pneumothorax or pleural effusion, not as a routine treatment for cystic fibrosis. While some clients with severe lung disease may require one in emergencies, it is not standard home care equipment.

B. NG tube with suction apparatus: While some clients with cystic fibrosis may require enteral feeding for nutritional support, an NG tube with suction is not a standard home intervention. Suctioning is generally needed for acute gastrointestinal obstruction rather than routine CF management.

C. Chest physiotherapy vest: This device helps loosen and mobilize thick mucus from the airways, improving airway clearance and reducing the risk of infections. It is a critical component of daily CF management and is commonly used in home settings.

D. Peak flow meter: A peak flow meter is more commonly used in asthma to monitor airway obstruction. In CF, lung function is better assessed with spirometry rather than peak expiratory flow, making this device less useful for routine home monitoring.

A. Infuse the unit of blood to the client over 6 hr: Blood transfusions should be completed within 4 hours to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and hemolysis. Prolonged infusion times increase the likelihood of complications such as infection or reduced efficacy of the transfused blood.

B. Prime the blood administration IV tubing with lactated Ringer’s: Blood products should only be primed and infused with normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) to prevent hemolysis and clot formation. Lactated Ringer’s contains calcium, which can cause clotting in the blood product, increasing the risk of complications.

C. Check the first set of vital signs 30 min after the blood infusion is started: The nurse should check the client’s vital signs before initiating the transfusion, then again within the first 15 minutes. The highest risk of transfusion reactions occurs within this period, requiring close monitoring for signs such as fever, chills, or hypotension.

D. Document the donation number of the unit of blood on the client’s electronic medical record: Accurate documentation of the blood unit’s donation number ensures traceability and accountability. This information is essential for tracking in case of transfusion reactions or recalls and is a standard safety practice in blood transfusion protocols.