A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has a hearing aid. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when the client reports hearing a whistling sound from the hearing aid?

Choice A Reason:

Adding 0.5 mL of diluent to the medication is inappropriate action. Ampules typically contain a single-dose of medication in a liquid form, and dilution is not necessary unless specified by the medication order or manufacturer.

Choice B Reason:

This is not necessary as the tip of the ampule is already sterile before opening. Cleansing after opening does not provide additional benefit and can introduce contaminants.

Choice C Reason:

Using a filter needle to aspirate the medication is inappropriate. Filter needles are not routinely used for administering medication from ample.

Choice D Reason:

This is not appropriate for ampules. Unlike vials, ampules do not require air to be injected. Air injection is necessary only for vials to create pressure, but ampules are opened and medication is drawn directly without the need for air.

Choice A Reason:

Placing the drainage system below the client's chest level is appropriate. This positioning allows for proper drainage and prevents the backflow of fluid or air into the chest. Maintaining the drainage system below the chest level helps ensure effective evacuation of air or fluid from the pleural space.

Choice B Reason:

Looping excess tubing next to the client's side is inappropriate. Looping excess tubing can create dependent loops, potentially causing fluid to accumulate in these areas and compromising the drainage system's effectiveness.

Choice C Reason:

Clamping the tubing when ambulating the client is inappropriate. Chest tube drainage systems should not be routinely clamped during ambulation. Clamping can lead to increased pleural pressure, potentially causing tension pneumothorax or other complications.

Choice D Reason:

Milking the client's tubing every shift is inappropriate. Milking or stripping the tubing is not recommended, as it can create a pressure gradient that may damage the lung tissue or disrupt the chest tube's seal. Passive drainage is preferred to maintain the negative pressure in the system.