A patient admitted with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is receiving eptifibatide, a glycoprotein (GP) IIb IIIa inhibitor.
Which assessment finding poses the greatest risk to the patient?

Choice A rationale

Assisting the spouse and carefully giving the patient small sips of water may seem like a compassionate action. However, it could potentially lead to aspiration if the patient’s swallowing reflex is compromised, which is common in stroke patients.

Choice B rationale

While obtaining thickening powder before providing any more fluids can help prevent aspiration in patients with dysphagia, it is not the immediate action the nurse should take. The nurse first needs to assess the patient’s swallowing reflex before deciding on the appropriate intervention.

Choice C rationale

The nurse should ask the spouse to stop and assess the patient’s swallowing reflex. This is the most immediate and appropriate action. Stroke patients often have impaired swallowing reflexes, which can lead to aspiration if not properly managed. By assessing the swallowing reflex, the nurse can determine the best course of action to ensure the patient’s safety.

Choice D rationale

Giving the spouse a straw to help facilitate the patient’s drinking is not the best course of action. Straws can increase the risk of aspiration in patients with impaired swallowing reflexes. The nurse should first assess the patient’s swallowing reflex before deciding on the appropriate intervention.

Choice A rationale

The antibiotic cefdinir is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, yogurt or buttermilk is a better choice due to their probiotic content, which may promote gut health and support the immune system.

Choice B rationale

Green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, but they are not a primary focus for a client with a postoperative wound infection. The emphasis should be on foods that support the immune system and overall recovery, such as yogurt or buttermilk.

Choice C rationale

Avocados and cheese are not specifically recommended for a client with a postoperative wound infection. While these foods are part of a balanced diet, they do not have specific benefits for a person taking cefdinir.

Choice D rationale

Fresh fruits are generally a healthy dietary choice, but they are not particularly relevant to the management of a postoperative wound infection. The emphasis for this client should be on foods that support wound healing and immune function, such as yogurt or buttermilk.