A nurse is preparing to administer an oral opioid analgesic to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when handling an unused portion of the medication after administration?

Choice A rationale:

Scheduling the client as the last surgery of the day is not directly related to the client's latex allergy. It might not be feasible to always schedule the client last, and this action does not specifically address the client's needs related to latex exposure.

Choice B rationale:

Notifying ancillary departments of the client's latex allergy is an important step to ensure the client's safety during the surgical process. This action helps other departments prepare and prevent accidental latex exposure, which could trigger an allergic reaction in the client.

Choice C rationale:

Labeling the surgical suite as latex-free is crucial to preventing latex exposure during the surgery. It alerts all staff members entering the surgical suite about the presence of a latex-allergic patient and reminds them to take appropriate precautions.

Choice D rationale:

Providing powdered gloves for the staff's use is not recommended, as powdered gloves can actually carry latex proteins and increase the risk of latex exposure. Powdered gloves have been associated with allergic reactions, so it's important to avoid their use in a latex-sensitive environment.

Choice E rationale:

Ensuring a latex allergy cart is available is a proactive measure to have necessary equipment and supplies on hand in case of an allergic reaction. This cart would contain latex-free items and medications that can be used to manage an allergic reaction should it occur during or after surgery.

The correct answer is choice d. When removing a peripheral IV catheter, the nurse uses scissors to remove the tape that secures the catheter.

Choice A rationale:

Inserting the tip of the enema tube 8 cm (3.1 in) is within the recommended range for adults, which is typically 7.5 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in). This action does not require intervention.

Choice B rationale:

Elevating the head of the bed when caring for a client’s body after death is a standard practice to prevent discoloration of the face and to facilitate drainage. This action does not require intervention.

Choice C rationale:

Using a clean washcloth, soap, and water for indwelling catheter care is appropriate and follows infection control guidelines. This action does not require intervention.

Choice D rationale:

Using scissors to remove the tape that secures a peripheral IV catheter is unsafe as it poses a risk of cutting the catheter or the client’s skin. This action requires intervention to ensure the nurse uses a safer method, such as using adhesive remover or gently peeling the tape away by hand.