A nurse is comparing a client's medication list with their discharge orders after a hospital stay for heart failure exacerbation. The nurse notices that the discharge orders include a new prescription for spironolactone, but do not include the client's usual dose of potassium chloride. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A) Incorrect. Assuming that the prescriber intentionally omitted potassium chloride because spironolactone can increase potassium levels is risky and unprofessional. The nurse should not make assumptions about the prescriber's intentions or clinical judgment, but rather seek clarification and verification.

B) Correct. Contacting the prescriber to confirm that potassium chloride was intentionally omitted and documenting the rationale is the best action. The nurse should communicate any discrepancies or concerns about the discharge orders with the prescriber and ensure that they are resolved before discharging the client.

C) Incorrect. Administering potassium chloride as previously ordered until the prescriber responds is inappropriate and potentially harmful. The nurse should not administer any medications that are not included in the current orders, especially if they may interact with other medications or affect the client's condition.

D) Incorrect. Adding potassium chloride to the discharge orders without contacting the prescriber is illegal and unethical. The nurse does not have the authority or competence to prescribe or modify medications without consulting with an authorized prescriber.

A) Correct. Asking the client how often and why they use each OTC product can help identify any potential drug-drug interactions, adverse effects, or self-treatment issues. The nurse should also educate the client on how to use OTC products safely and appropriately.

B) Incorrect. Advising the client to avoid using any OTC products without consulting their prescriber is unrealistic and unnecessary. Some OTC products are effective and safe for minor ailments, as long as they are used as directed and do not interfere with the client's prescription medications.

C) Incorrect. Recording only the prescription medications on the medication list is incomplete and inaccurate. The nurse should include all medications that the client is taking, including OTC products, vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements.

D) Incorrect. Discarding any OTC products that are expired or unsealed without the client's consent is disrespectful and wasteful. The nurse should inform the client of the risks of using expired or contaminated products and offer to dispose of them properly.