A nurse is caring for a client who is to undergo a liver biopsy. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide to the client following the procedure?

Choice A Reason:

Expressive aphasia, also known as Broca’s aphasia, is a common symptom of a left-hemisphere stroke. This condition affects the person’s ability to produce speech, although their comprehension may remain intact. The left hemisphere of the brain is typically responsible for language and speech functions, so damage to this area often results in expressive aphasia.

Choice B Reason:

Poor impulse control is more commonly associated with right-hemisphere strokes. The right hemisphere is involved in controlling behavior and emotions, so damage to this area can lead to impulsivity and poor judgment.

Choice C Reason:

Left hemiparesis, or weakness on the left side of the body, is typically a result of a right-hemisphere stroke. Strokes affect the opposite side of the body from the hemisphere where the stroke occurred. Therefore, a left-hemisphere stroke would more likely cause right-sided weakness or paralysis.

Choice D Reason:

Disorientation to place can occur with strokes affecting either hemisphere, but it is not a specific hallmark of left-hemisphere strokes. Cognitive impairments such as disorientation are more generalized and can result from various types of brain injuries.

Choice A Reason

Review the client’s Hgb level prior to administration. This is the correct action. Monitoring hemoglobin (Hgb) levels is crucial before administering epoetin because it helps determine the appropriate dosage and ensures the treatment is safe and effective. Epoetin is used to stimulate red blood cell production, and administering it without checking Hgb levels can lead to complications such as hypertension or thromboembolic events if the Hgb level is too high.

Choice B Reason

Use the Z-track method when administering the medication. This statement is incorrect. The Z-track method is used for intramuscular injections to prevent medication from leaking into subcutaneous tissues. Epoetin is typically administered subcutaneously or intravenously, not intramuscularly, so the Z-track method is not applicable.

Choice C Reason

Shake the vial for 30 seconds prior to withdrawing the medication. This statement is incorrect. Shaking the vial of epoetin can damage the protein structure of the medication, rendering it ineffective. The vial should be gently swirled if necessary, but not shaken.

Choice D Reason

Ensure the client is not taking iron supplements while on this medication. This statement is incorrect. Iron supplements are often necessary when administering epoetin because iron is required for the production of hemoglobin. Ensuring adequate iron levels helps maximize the effectiveness of epoetin therapy.