A nurse is teaching a client measures to help relieve sleeplessness. Which would be the highest priority teaching point during the instructional session?

A. Dietary restriction while taking hydrocodone

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with hydrocodone use. This option is not relevant to hydrocodone therapy.

B. Instructions not to exceed recommended dosage

It is crucial to emphasize to the patient not to exceed the recommended dosage of hydrocodone. Exceeding the prescribed dose can lead to adverse effects, including respiratory depression.

C. Instructions not to use alcohol or CNS depressants while taking hydrocodone

Hydrocodone is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Combining it with alcohol or other CNS depressants can increase the risk of respiratory depression and sedation. Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol and other drugs that depress the CNS.

D. Instructions on how to prevent constipation

Opioid medications, including hydrocodone, can cause constipation. Patients should receive instructions on how to prevent constipation, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake and incorporating regular physical activity.

E. Side effects to report

Patients should be educated about potential side effects of hydrocodone and instructed to report any unusual or severe side effects to their healthcare provider promptly. This may include symptoms such as respiratory distress, severe drowsiness, or allergic reactions.

A. Give the child fluids and proceed to the emergency department.
While giving the child fluids is generally important, proceeding to the emergency department without consulting poison control may not be the most appropriate initial action. Poison control can provide specific guidance based on the substance ingested.

B. Call the poison control center and follow directions.
The safest advice for a toddler who has ingested a small amount of household cleaning fluid is to call the poison control center and follow their directions. Poison control centers are staffed with professionals who can provide specific guidance based on the type and amount of the ingested substance. They can advise on the appropriate steps to take, such as whether immediate medical attention is needed or if monitoring at home is sufficient.

C. Administer syrup of ipecac and monitor for vomiting.
The use of syrup of ipecac is no longer recommended as a routine measure for ingested substances. It can have adverse effects and may not be effective for all substances. Consulting poison control for guidance is considered a more appropriate approach.

D. Have the toddler eat bread to absorb the substance.
The ingestion of certain substances may not be effectively addressed by having the toddler eat bread. The specific advice for management should come from poison control, which can provide evidence-based guidance.