A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a patient about self-administration of regular insulin. Which of the following instructions should be included by the nurse?

Choice A rationale

Sudden jaw pain can be a symptom of a heart attack. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if this occurs.

Choice B rationale

While some people may experience hot, dry, and flushed skin during a heart attack, it’s not a common symptom and should not be relied upon as an indicator.

Choice C rationale

Waiting 30 minutes before taking action if experiencing heartburn is not advisable, especially if the individual has a history of heart disease. Heartburn can sometimes be a symptom of a heart attack.

Choice D rationale

Nitroglycerin is typically taken at the first sign of chest pain. If the pain does not improve or worsens after one dose, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.

Choice A rationale:

Oxygen saturation is not provided in the exhibits, so there is no data available to evaluate if it indicates improvement in the client’s condition. While oxygen saturation is an important indicator of respiratory function and overall oxygenation status, its absence means it cannot be used to assess the client’s progress in this case.

Choice B rationale:

Hemoglobin levels decreased from 14 g/dL on postoperative day 1 to 10.5 g/dL on postoperative day 2. This decline in hemoglobin levels suggests that the client may be experiencing blood loss or anemia, which is not indicative of improvement. Generally, an improvement in the client’s condition would be reflected in stable or increasing hemoglobin levels rather than a decrease.

Choice C rationale:

Mental status is an important indicator of overall recovery and improvement. On postoperative day 2, the client is described as drowsy but alert to voice. This level of responsiveness indicates an improvement in mental status compared to what might be expected immediately post-surgery. A client who is drowsy but still responsive to verbal stimuli is showing signs of regaining consciousness and cognitive function, which is a positive sign of recovery.

Choice D rationale:

Urinary output is not provided in the exhibits, so there is no data available to assess if it indicates improvement. Urinary output is an important measure of kidney function and fluid status, but without specific data, it cannot be used to determine the client’s progress.

Choice E rationale:

The WBC count increased from 7,000/mm³ on day 1 to 8,500/mm³ on day 2, which is within the normal range and indicates a healthy immune response.