A nurse is teaching a client who has asthma and a prescription for an inhaler. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A) Bicarbonate 26 mEq/L: A bicarbonate level of 26 mEq/L is within the normal range (22-28 mEq/L) and does not indicate metabolic acidosis, which is characteristic of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In DKA, bicarbonate levels are usually decreased due to buffering of the excess acids.

B) Serum pH 7.32: A serum pH of 7.32 is indicative of acidemia, which is consistent with metabolic acidosis seen in DKA. The pH is typically lower than the normal range (7.35-7.45) in DKA due to the accumulation of ketoacids.

C) Creatinine 1.2 mg/dL: A creatinine level of 1.2 mg/dL is slightly elevated but does not specifically indicate metabolic acidosis. Elevated creatinine may suggest renal impairment but is not directly linked to the acid-base disturbance seen in DKA.

D) BUN 20 mg/dL: A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 20 mg/dL is elevated and may indicate dehydration or kidney dysfunction but does not specifically diagnose the acid-base imbalance associated with DKA. In DKA, bicarbonate and pH levels are more directly affected.

A) Teach the client to void over a urine strainer: After lithotripsy, clients are often advised to void over a strainer to catch any small stone fragments that may pass. This helps in monitoring the passage of stone fragments and ensures that any remaining stones can be analyzed for further management.

B) Administer oxybutynin to the client twice per day: Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic medication used to treat bladder spasms. It is not routinely used after lithotripsy unless specifically prescribed for bladder spasms, which are not a common postoperative concern for this procedure.

C) Encourage frequent ambulation for the client: Frequent ambulation is beneficial after lithotripsy as it helps promote overall recovery, reduces the risk of complications like deep vein thrombosis, and can facilitate the passage of stone fragments. Encouraging movement is an essential aspect of postoperative care.

D) Check the client's urine for ketones three times per day: Monitoring for ketones is not typically required following lithotripsy unless there is a specific concern about diabetic ketoacidosis or another condition that warrants ketone monitoring. It is not a standard intervention for postoperative care after lithotripsy.

E) Instruct the client to drink 3 L of fluid per day: Increasing fluid intake is crucial after lithotripsy to help flush out any remaining stone fragments and to prevent new stone formation. Drinking 3 liters of fluid per day is generally recommended to maintain adequate hydration and support the urinary system.