A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with Hodgkin disease who has significant cervical lymph node enlargement.

Which symptom should the nurse address first?

Based on the provided exhibits, here are the considerations for the provider’s prescriptions:

• Test stools for occult blood:Anticipated. Given the client’s report of vomiting brown emesis, which could indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, testing stools for occult blood is a standard diagnostic approach to confirm or rule out bleeding.
• Insert a nasogastric tube, attach to low suction:Anticipated. The client has vomited coffee ground emesis, which is a sign of possible upper gastrointestinal bleeding. A nasogastric tube can help decompress the stomach and remove any remaining blood or gastric contents.
• Administer aspirin for abdominal pain:Contraindicated. Aspirin can exacerbate gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in a client with a history of GERD and current symptoms that may suggest a gastrointestinal bleed.
• Initiate IV fluids:Anticipated. The client’s vital signs indicate tachycardia and hypotension, which, along with the clinical presentation, suggest volume depletion possibly due to vomiting and potential bleeding. IV fluids are necessary to maintain hemodynamic stability.

Choice A rationale
Alendronate should be taken at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day with plain water only. This is because other beverages (including mineral water), food, and some medications are likely to reduce the absorption of alendronate.
Choice B rationale
Alendronate should not be taken with milk. This is because the calcium in the milk can bind to the alendronate, preventing it from being absorbed into the body and therefore making it less effective. This is why the patient’s statement indicates a need for further instruction.
Choice C rationale
After taking alendronate, the patient should not lie down and should remain fully upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes. This is to help alendronate reach the stomach more quickly and also to reduce the risk of irritation to the esophagus. Therefore, sitting up and reading the morning paper after taking alendronate is a correct practice.
Choice D rationale
Regular bone density tests are necessary while taking alendronate. This is to monitor the drug’s effectiveness in increasing bone mass and to adjust the treatment plan as necessary. Therefore, the patient’s statement is correct.