A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a new chest tube that is attached to closed chest water-seal drainage and suction. The nurse should report which of the following findings to the charge nurse?

A. Yellow sclera: Yellow sclera indicates jaundice, which may suggest liver damage. This is concerning for a client taking isoniazid and rifampin, both of which are known to cause hepatotoxicity. Jaundice is a sign of potential liver impairment, requiring immediate attention.

B. AST level: The AST level is 36 units/L, which is slightly elevated but still within the acceptable upper limit of normal. Since it is only marginally above normal and shows no significant trend of increase, it is not critical at this stage.

C. Weight loss: The client had experienced a 3.2 kg (7 lb) weight loss prior to admission. Although weight loss is a common symptom of tuberculosis, there is no indication of rapid or concerning weight loss since admission (only a 0.7 kg (1.66 lb) reduction). This mild decrease in weight does not necessarily require urgent reporting.

D. Mantoux test result: A Mantoux test result of 12 mm induration suggests a positive result, indicating tuberculosis exposure or infection. However, this finding is already expected based on the client’s confirmed TB diagnosis. Therefore, it does not need to be reported as new or concerning information.

E. Chest x-ray: The chest x-ray results are pending, and since this is a key diagnostic tool in assessing the extent of pulmonary tuberculosis, it is important to follow up and report the findings to help determine treatment response or identify any complications, such as cavitation or pleural effusion.

F. ALT level: The ALT level is 38 SI/L, which is only slightly above the normal range (4-36 SI/L). While this could be a mild indication of liver stress, it does not by itself suggest severe liver dysfunction. However, the presence of jaundice (yellow sclera) combined with this level could indicate the beginning of hepatotoxicity, so while the ALT alone is not alarming, it should be considered in the context of the patient's clinical picture.

A. Oral montelukast: Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for long-term asthma control, not for acute attacks.

B. Cromolyn via nebulizer: Cromolyn is a mast cell stabilizer used for long-term control, not for treating acute asthma exacerbations.

C. Albuterol via jet nebulizer: Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist used to quickly relieve bronchoconstriction during an acute asthma attack. It is the first-line treatment in emergencies to help open the airways and improve breathing.

D. Budesonide via jet nebulizer: Budesonide is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation over time. It is not used for immediate relief in an asthma attack.