A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with a client who states, "I don't feel confident driving to my follow-up appointments." The nurse should obtain a referral for which of the following members of the health care team?

Choice A reason:

"Repeat the dose if your child vomits within 1 hour after taking the medication." This statement is incorrect. If a child vomits within 1 hour after taking digoxin, the parents should not repeat the dose. The reason is that the child may have already absorbed a sufficient amount of the medication before vomiting, and an additional dose could lead to digoxin toxicity.

Choice B reason:

"You can add the medication to a half-cup of your child's favourite juice." This statement is incorrect. Adding digoxin to juice or any other food or drink is not recommended. Digoxin should be administered separately and not mixed with food or liquids to ensure accurate dosing and prevent potential interactions with other substances.

Choice C reason:

"Have your child drink a small glass of water after swallowing the medication." This statement is correct. Giving a small glass of water after administering digoxin helps ensure that the medication is fully swallowed and goes into the stomach, reducing the risk of it being retained in the mouth or throat.

Choice D reason:

"Limit your child's potassium intake while she is taking this medication." This statement is not accurate. Digoxin is often prescribed in conjunction with other heart failure medications, some of which may impact potassium levels. However, the parents should not arbitrarily limit the child's potassium intake without specific instructions from the healthcare provider. The healthcare provider will monitor the child's potassium levels and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

Choice A reason:

Allow the client's partner to translate. While the partner may be well-intentioned, using a family member or friend as an ad-hoc interpreter can compromise the confidentiality of the information and may not accurately convey the client's medical concerns.

Choice B reason:

Have the client's child translate. Relying on a child to translate sensitive medical information is inappropriate, as it may burden the child and may lead to potential misunderstandings or omissions in communication.

Choice C reason:

Ask a nursing student who speaks the same language as the client to translate. Although a nursing student who speaks the same language as the client may be able to assist, using a professional interpreter is the preferred option. Professional interpreters have specific training in medical terminology and communication, ensuring the most accurate and effective exchange of information.

Choice D reason:

Using a professional interpreter is essential in situations where the healthcare provider and the client do not speak the same language. It ensures accurate communication, maintains confidentiality, and prevents misunderstandings. In this scenario, the nurse should request an interpreter who is proficient in the client's language to assist with the admission process.