A nurse is preparing to administer three medications to a client who is receiving continuous enteral feeding through an NG tube.
Which of the following actions is appropriate for the nurse to take?

The correct answer is **a. Observe for bruising of the skin.**

Choice A rationale: Observing for bruising of the skin is an appropriate nursing intervention when caring for a client receiving alteplase (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator or rt-PA), a thrombolytic medication used to dissolve blood clots. Alteplase can increase the risk of bleeding, including bruising, as it works to break down the clot. Closely monitoring the client for any signs of bleeding or bruising is crucial to identify and manage potential complications.

Choice B rationale: Administering medications intramuscularly is not recommended when a client is receiving alteplase. Intramuscular injections can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided, as alteplase can impair the body's ability to form clots and stop bleeding.

Choice C rationale: Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours is not the appropriate frequency for a client receiving alteplase. Vital signs should be monitored more frequently, typically every 30 minutes to 1 hour, to closely observe for any changes that may indicate bleeding or other complications.

Choice D rationale: Providing a diet low in protein is not a necessary intervention for a client receiving alteplase. Alteplase works by targeting the blood clot and does not require specific dietary modifications. The focus should be on monitoring for bleeding and managing any potential complications, rather than adjusting the client's diet.

The correct answer is B. The nurse should encourage the family to express their feelings of loss and provide emotional support and comfort during this difficult time. The nurse should also respect their cultural and religious beliefs and practices regarding death and dying, and allow them to spend as much time as they need with their loved one's body, unless there are infection control issues or legal requirements that prevent it. The other options are incorrect because they are insensitive and disrespectful to the family's needs and wishes.