A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has cancer and is undergoing external radiation therapy. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Administer phytonadione (Vitamin K): Contraindicated

There is no indication that the client has a bleeding disorder or is on anticoagulant therapy requiring Vitamin K. This intervention is not relevant to the client's condition.

Apply cool compress to the extremity: Anticipated

A cool compress helps reduce pain and swelling associated with IV infiltration by constricting blood vessels and limiting the spread of IV fluid into surrounding tissues.

Elevate extremity: Anticipated

Elevation promotes venous return and reduces edema in the infiltrated extremity, aiding in symptom relief and tissue recovery.

Suggest irrigating the IV catheter: Contraindicated

Flushing or irrigating an infiltrated IV catheter could worsen tissue damage by forcing more fluid into the surrounding area. The catheter should be removed immediately.

Assist in inserting a new IV catheter in a site distal to the infiltration site: Contraindicated

A new IV should be placed proximal (above) rather than distal to the infiltration site to ensure proper circulation and avoid further infiltration.

Send the catheter tip for culture: Anticipated

Given the client’s edema, pain, and potential IV infiltration, infection is a concern. Sending the catheter tip for culture helps rule out phlebitis or IV-related infection.

A) I have occasional vaginal spotting: Vaginal spotting can occur as a side effect of medroxyprogesterone, especially in the first few months of use. While this should be monitored, it is not an immediate concern that requires urgent reporting unless the spotting becomes heavy or persistent, which could indicate other issues.

B) I have developed brown patches on my face: The development of brown patches on the face (known as melasma) is a known side effect of hormonal contraceptives, including medroxyprogesterone. Although this is an undesirable cosmetic effect, it is not an urgent medical concern that requires immediate attention.

C) I have breast tenderness: Breast tenderness is a common side effect of medroxyprogesterone and other hormonal medications. It is usually mild and resolves over time. While the client should continue to monitor the tenderness, it does not present an immediate risk or require urgent intervention.

D) I have intermittent calf pain: Intermittent calf pain could be a sign of a more serious complication, such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially since medroxyprogesterone can increase the risk of blood clots. This symptom should be reported immediately to the healthcare provider, as a DVT could potentially lead to a pulmonary embolism if left untreated, which is a life-threatening condition. Therefore, this is the priority finding to report.