A nurse is collecting data from a client who reports nausea and has vomited clear emesis. Which of the following medications should the nurse administer?

A. "Do not take more than 200 milligrams of this medication within 24 hours." This statement is correct for oral sumatriptan, which has a maximum recommended dose of 200 mg per 24 hours. Clients can take one 50 mg or 100 mg dose initially, and if the headache persists, a second dose can be taken after at least 2 hours, provided the total daily dose does not exceed 200 mg.

B. "You can take a second dose of this medication at least 2 hours after the initial dose if the headache persists." A second dose of sumatriptan can be taken at least 2 hours after the first dose if the headache has not fully resolved. However, if the headache persists after the maximum daily dose (200 mg), the client should not take additional doses and should seek medical evaluation.

C. "You should discontinue this medication if pregnancy is planned or suspected." Sumatriptan is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning its effects on fetal development are not well studied. Clients who are pregnant or planning to conceive should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication.

D. "You might experience a rash on your skin while taking this medication." Skin rash is not a common side effect of sumatriptan. If a rash develops, it could indicate an allergic reaction, which should be reported to a provider. However, routine monitoring for rashes is not necessary when taking sumatriptan.

E. "You might experience a feeling of pressure in your chest after taking this medication." Chest tightness or pressure is a known side effect of sumatriptan due to its vasoconstrictive effects. This sensation is usually temporary and not dangerous, but if it becomes severe or persistent, the client should seek medical attention to rule out cardiovascular complications.

F. "This medication can cause you to feel tired." Fatigue, drowsiness, and dizziness are common side effects of sumatriptan. Clients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.

G. "This medication should start to alleviate the headache within 1 hour." Sumatriptan typically begins to relieve migraine symptoms within 30 to 60 minutes when taken orally. If the headache does not improve after 2 hours, a second dose may be taken, but the total daily dose should not exceed 200 mg.

A. Cover the administration area with plastic wrap. After applying nitroglycerin ointment, the area should be covered with plastic wrap or a transparent dressing to prevent evaporation and ensure proper absorption through the skin. This also helps prevent the medication from accidentally transferring to another person or clothing.

B. Massage the ointment into the skin. Nitroglycerin ointment should not be massaged into the skin, as this can cause rapid absorption and lead to hypotension and dizziness due to vasodilation. Instead, it should be applied as a thin, even layer and covered with a dressing.

C. Spread the ointment in a 10 cm² (4 in²) area. The correct application method involves measuring the exact prescribed amount (e.g., using the applicator paper) and applying it in a thin layer. The area of application may vary based on the dosage, but the focus should be on accurate measurement, not a specific area size.

D. Apply the ointment in a thick layer. A thick application is unnecessary and could increase absorption too quickly, leading to side effects such as headache, dizziness, and hypotension. Instead, a measured dose should be spread thinly and evenly onto clean, dry skin.