A nurse is monitoring a client who has just had a thoracentesis to remove pleural fluid. Which of the following clinical manifestations should indicate to the nurse the client is experiencing a complication and the provider should be notified immediately?

Choice A reason: Black-colored stools can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a potential side effect of corticosteroids like betamethasone. It is not considered harmless and should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.

Choice B reason: A low-potassium diet is not specifically required for clients taking betamethasone. Corticosteroids can cause potassium loss, so it is important to monitor potassium levels, but not necessarily restrict intake unless directed by the healthcare provider.

Choice C reason: The correct answer is c because taking corticosteroids like betamethasone every other day can help reduce the risk of adrenal suppression, a common side effect of long-term corticosteroid use. This dosing schedule allows the adrenal glands to recover and maintain their function.

Choice D reason: Taking betamethasone before bedtime is not specifically recommended for its effectiveness. The dosing schedule should be based on the healthcare provider's instructions and tailored to the client's condition and response to the medication.

Choice A reason: Telling the partner to call the nurse to push the button is not appropriate. PCA is designed to allow the client to self-administer pain medication based on their own perception of pain. Only the client should press the button to avoid the risk of over-sedation and respiratory depression.

Choice B reason: Encouraging the partner to press the button while the client is asleep can lead to over-medication and serious complications such as respiratory depression.

Choice C reason: Asking the partner why they think more medication is needed when the client is asleep does not address the underlying issue of inappropriate use of the PCA pump.

Choice D reason: The correct answer is d because the client should be the one to decide when more medication is needed. This ensures that the client receives the appropriate amount of pain relief based on their individual needs and prevents the risk of over-sedation.