A nurse plans care for a client with a new order for oxygen. After verifying the healthcare provider's order for oxygen therapy, what action should the nurse plan to take next?

Rationale:

A. The frequency of medication administration is not missing. The prescription states “daily,” which clearly indicates how often the medication should be given. Therefore, frequency is included.

B. The medication administration route is missing. A complete medication prescription must include the medication name, dose, route, frequency, and often the indication. Although the drug (metoprolol), dose (50 mg), and frequency (daily) are provided, the route (such as PO or IV) is not specified. Since metoprolol can be administered by different routes depending on the formulation and clinical situation, the nurse must clarify the route before administering the medication.

C. Parameters to hold the medication, such as holding for a low heart rate or low blood pressure, may be clinically appropriate but are not required components of a basic medication prescription. Therefore, their absence does not make the order incomplete.

D. The prescription is not complete because the route of administration is missing, which is an essential component of a safe and legal medication order.

Rationale:
A. Pregnancy is a common cause of constipation due to both hormonal and mechanical factors. Increased levels of progesterone during pregnancy relax smooth muscles, including those of the gastrointestinal tract, which slows intestinal motility. Additionally, the enlarging uterus exerts pressure on the intestines, reducing the space for normal bowel movement and contributing to slower transit of stool. These combined effects make constipation a frequent concern for pregnant clients.

B. Foodborne pathogens are not a typical cause of constipation. Infections from contaminated food usually result in diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and other gastrointestinal disturbances rather than slowed bowel movements. Therefore, this option does not contribute to constipation.

C. Stress can negatively affect bowel habits. Stress triggers the release of hormones such as cortisol and catecholamines, which can disrupt normal gut motility. In some individuals, stress slows peristalsis, leading to delayed passage of stool and constipation. Psychological factors and emotional tension can thus play a significant role in chronic or intermittent constipation.

D. Active lifestyle generally protects against constipation. Regular physical activity stimulates intestinal contractions and promotes normal bowel motility. Sedentary behavior, rather than activity, is associated with increased risk of constipation, so an active lifestyle is actually preventive.

E. Low fiber diet is a well-recognized contributor to constipation. Dietary fiber adds bulk and water to stool, helping it move smoothly through the intestines. Diets low in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes reduce stool bulk and slow bowel transit time, making stools harder and more difficult to pass.

F. Low fluid intake exacerbates constipation because adequate hydration keeps stool soft and easier to pass. Dehydration or insufficient fluid consumption leads to drier, firmer stools that can cause straining and incomplete evacuation. Adequate water intake is therefore essential for maintaining regular bowel function.