A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a newly licensed nurse about caring for a client who has a history of dysphagia. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Give a dose of alendronate is incorrect. Alendronate is a medication used to treat osteoporosis, and it does not address low potassium levels. In this case, the focus should be on correcting the potassium imbalance.

B. Administer furosemide is incorrect. Furosemide is a diuretic that can cause further loss of potassium. In a client with low potassium levels (hypokalemia., administering furosemide could worsen the condition and lead to life-threatening complications.

C. Apply a cardiac monitor is correct. Hypokalemia (potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L) can cause significant cardiac arrhythmias, including ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Applying a cardiac monitor is essential for monitoring the client’s heart rhythm and detecting any abnormalities related to the low potassium level.

D. Monitor for Chvostek's sign is incorrect. Chvostek's sign is indicative of hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia. While both hypocalcemia and hypokalemia can cause neuromuscular excitability, monitoring for Chvostek’s sign is not a priority in the management of hypokalemia.

A. "Provide homeschooling for your child" is not a necessary instruction. Children with cystic fibrosis can attend school, and with appropriate care, they can often manage their condition and participate in normal activities.

B. "Have your child wear a medical identification wristband" is correct. A medical identification wristband is important for children with cystic fibrosis as it can provide crucial information in an emergency, such as their diagnosis and specific care needs.

C. "Ensure that your child does not receive the influenza vaccine annually" is incorrect. Children with cystic fibrosis are at higher risk for respiratory complications and should receive the influenza vaccine annually to help prevent infection and reduce the risk of exacerbations.

D. "Do not include your child when making decisions about treatment" is incorrect. Involving children in their treatment decisions, as appropriate for their age and understanding, is important for fostering autonomy and ensuring they feel empowered in managing their condition.