A nurse is preparing to infuse a 250-mL unit of packed RBCs over 2 hours. The drop factor of the manual IV tubing is 15 gtts/mL. The nurse should adjust the flow rate to deliver how many drops per minute?

(Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Choice A reason:

The statement “Rinse mouth 2 times per day with an alcohol-based mouthwash” is incorrect. Methotrexate can cause mouth sores and irritation, and using an alcohol-based mouthwash can exacerbate these symptoms. Instead, patients are often advised to use a non-alcoholic mouthwash or a saline rinse to help prevent and soothe mouth sores.

Choice B reason:

The statement “Take the medication with an NSAID” is incorrect. Methotrexate should not be taken with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without medical supervision because this combination can increase the risk of severe side effects, including bone marrow suppression and gastrointestinal toxicity. Patients should always consult their healthcare provider before combining these medications.

Choice C reason:

The statement “Take an antiemetic 1 hour following administration” is not standard advice for methotrexate. While methotrexate can cause nausea, antiemetics are typically taken before or at the same time as the methotrexate dose to prevent nausea, not after. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the timing of antiemetics.

Choice D reason:

The statement “Drink 2 to 3 liters of water per day” is correct. Methotrexate can cause kidney damage, and staying well-hydrated helps to prevent this by promoting the excretion of the drug and reducing its concentration in the kidneys. Drinking plenty of fluids is an important part of managing methotrexate therapy safely.

Choice A reason:

Applying a heat lamp twice a day is not recommended for treating stage 3 pressure ulcers. Heat lamps can cause burns and further damage to the already compromised skin. The primary goal in treating pressure ulcers is to reduce pressure, keep the area clean, and promote healing. Heat lamps do not contribute to these goals and can potentially worsen the condition.

Choice B reason:

Repositioning the client at least every 2 hours is a crucial intervention for managing stage 3 pressure ulcers. Frequent repositioning helps to alleviate pressure on the affected area, improving blood flow and preventing further tissue damage. This practice is essential in preventing the progression of pressure ulcers and promoting healing. It is one of the most effective strategies in pressure ulcer management.

Choice C reason:

Massaging reddened areas with dressing changes is not advisable. Massaging can cause additional trauma to the skin and underlying tissues, potentially worsening the ulcer. Instead, gentle handling and appropriate wound care techniques should be used to avoid further damage. Massaging can also disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection.

Choice D reason:

Cleaning the wound with hydrogen peroxide solution is not recommended for stage 3 pressure ulcers. Hydrogen peroxide can damage healthy tissue and delay the healing process. It is better to use saline or other wound cleaning solutions that are gentle and effective in removing debris without harming the tissue. Proper wound cleaning is essential to prevent infection and promote healing.