A nurse is planning care for a client who is undergoing brachytherapy with a low-dose radiation implant for treatment of prostate cancer.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the client's plan of care?

The correct answer is B, C, and E.

• A. Weight is not a correct choice because it is not a vital sign and it does not indicate an acute change in the client's condition.
• B. Neuro status is a correct choice because it reflects the client's level of consciousness, orientation, memory, and cognitive function. Any alteration in neuro status could indicate a serious problem such as infection, stroke, or medication toxicity.
• C. Auditory hallucinations are a correct choice because they are a symptom of psychosis and could indicate a relapse or worsening of the client's mental illness. Auditory hallucinations could also impair the client's ability to cope, communicate, and function effectively.
• D. Speech is not a correct choice because it is not a vital sign and it does not indicate an acute change in the client's condition. Speech could be affected by various factors such as mood, anxiety, or medication side effects.
• E. Restlessness is a correct choice because it is a sign of agitation, anxiety, or discomfort. Restlessness could also indicate an underlying physical or psychological problem such as pain, infection, or psychosis.

Choice A rationale:

The statement, "I will take the medication in the morning," indicates lack of understanding. Metformin is usually taken with large meals, and taking it in the morning is not the best timing.

Choice B rationale:

The statement, "I will expect to gain weight," is incorrect. Weight gain is not an expected side effect of metformin. In fact, metformin is often associated with weight loss or weight maintenance, especially in individuals with diabetes, as it helps improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.

Choice C rationale:

The statement, "I will take the medication on an empty stomach," is incorrect for extended-release metformin tablets. Unlike immediate-release metformin, extended-release tablets should be taken with meals to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

Choice D rationale:

The statement, "I will avoid crushing this medication," is correct. Metformin extended-release tablets should never be crushed or broken, as it can affect the way the medication is released into the body. Crushing or breaking the tablet can lead to a sudden release of a large amount of metformin, potentially causing an overdose.