A nurse observes a parent administer a prescribed oral medication to an infant. Which of the following statements indicates a need for further instruction?

Choice A reason: Administer a test dose first

Administering a test dose is not typically required for theophylline. Theophylline dosing is usually based on the patient’s weight and serum theophylline levels. A test dose is more commonly associated with medications that have a high risk of allergic reactions or require desensitization protocols, which is not the case with theophylline.

Choice B reason: Infuse the medication with an IV pump

Using an IV pump to infuse theophylline is essential to ensure accurate and controlled delivery of the medication. Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range, and precise dosing is crucial to avoid toxicity. An IV pump allows for consistent infusion rates, reducing the risk of adverse effects. This is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take.

Choice C reason: Cover the IV container with dark paper

There is no need to cover the IV container with dark paper when administering theophylline. Theophylline is not light-sensitive, so this precaution is unnecessary. Covering IV containers is typically done for medications that degrade when exposed to light, such as certain antibiotics and chemotherapy agents.

Choice D reason: Infuse the medication at 35 mg/min

Infusing theophylline at a rate of 35 mg/min is excessively high and could lead to severe toxicity. The infusion rate for theophylline should be carefully calculated based on the patient’s weight and serum levels, and it is typically much lower than 35 mg/min. Rapid infusion can cause serious side effects, including arrhythmias and seizures.

Choice A reason: The statement “Normalcy begins to return to the community” describes the reconstruction phase of disaster response, not the heroic phase. During the reconstruction phase, efforts are focused on rebuilding and restoring the community to its pre-disaster state. This phase involves long-term recovery and the re-establishment of normalcy.

Choice B reason: The statement “Personnel are willing to work in dangerous conditions to provide assistance” accurately describes the heroic phase of disaster response. During this phase, there is an immediate and intense effort to save lives and prevent further harm. First responders, healthcare workers, and volunteers often work tirelessly and risk their own safety to provide urgent assistance and support to those affected by the disaster.

Choice C reason: The statement “Responders experience exhaustion due to extended relief efforts” pertains to the disillusionment phase of disaster response. In this phase, the initial adrenaline and motivation begin to wane, and responders may feel overwhelmed and fatigued by the prolonged demands of relief efforts. This phase can lead to burnout and a sense of frustration among responders.

Choice D reason: The statement “Survivors come together and share stories of survival” is characteristic of the honeymoon phase of disaster response. During this phase, there is a strong sense of community and solidarity among survivors. People come together to support each other, share their experiences, and find comfort in their shared resilience.