A nurse is reviewing the EKG strip of a client who has prolonged vomiting. Which of the following abnormalities on the client's EKG should the nurse interpret as a sign of hypokalemia?

A. Divalproex: Divalproex is typically administered with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and enhance absorption. Administering it after breakfast or with a meal is recommended to reduce the risk of stomach upset and improve its bioavailability. Taking divalproex with food also helps to slow its absorption, which can decrease the incidence of adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting.
B. Mycostatin mouthwash: Mycostatin mouthwash is a topical antifungal medication used to treat oral candidiasis. Unlike systemic medications, its efficacy is not significantly influenced by food intake. Therefore, it can be administered before or after meals as prescribed, depending on the convenience of the patient. However, if the patient has oral lesions or discomfort, administering it after meals may be preferable to provide relief and ensure maximum contact time with affected areas.
C. Digoxin: Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside commonly used to treat heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It is typically administered on an empty stomach to facilitate optimal absorption. Giving digoxin before breakfast allows for consistent drug levels and reduces the risk of food interfering with its absorption. By administering it before meals, the nurse ensures that the medication is absorbed efficiently and its therapeutic effects are maximized.
D. Alendronate: Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication used in the treatment of osteoporosis to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. It requires administration on an empty stomach in the morning, usually at least 30 minutes before the first meal or beverage of the day, with a full glass of water. This timing ensures adequate absorption and minimizes the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration. Alendronate has poor oral bioavailability, and taking it with food, beverages, or medications can significantly decrease its absorption. Therefore, administering it before breakfast on an empty stomach is crucial to optimize its effectiveness and reduce the potential for adverse gastrointestinal effects.

Yellow-green drainage from a surgical incision may indicate the presence of infection, especially if the drainage is purulent. This finding should be reported to the provider promptly for further evaluation and management to prevent complications such as wound infection or dehiscence.

A. Yellow-green drainage on the surgical incision: Yellow-green drainage suggests the presence of infection, which is a concerning finding in a postoperative client. It may indicate purulent drainage, which requires further assessment and possibly treatment with antibiotics.
B. Blood pressure 102/66 mm Hg: A blood pressure of 102/66 mm Hg is within the normal range for an adult client and does not typically require immediate intervention. However, trends in blood pressure should be monitored, especially if the client is symptomatic or if there are significant changes from the client's baseline.
C. Straw-colored urine from an indwelling urinary catheter: Straw-colored urine is a normal finding and indicates adequate hydration and kidney function. As long as the urine output is adequate and there are no other signs of urinary tract issues, this finding does not typically require immediate reporting.
D. Respiratory rate 18/min: A respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute is within the normal range for an adult client and does not typically require immediate intervention. However, it's important to assess the client's respiratory status comprehensively, including oxygen saturation and lung sounds, to ensure adequate ventilation.