An acute care nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and has a prescription for physical therapy 2-3 times per day for 2 weeks.
Which of the following resources should the nurse anticipate that the client will require upon discharge?

Choice A rationale:

Rounding the amount to be administered to the nearest whole number is a step that may be necessary, but it should not be the first action taken. The nurse should first ensure that the dosage calculation is accurate and based on the client's weight in kilograms. Once the dosage in milligrams is calculated, rounding can be considered.

Choice B rationale:

Calculating the dosage in milligrams is an essential step, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. To determine the correct dosage in milligrams, the nurse needs to convert the client's weight from pounds to kilograms first, as the medication order is given in milligrams per kilogram.

Choice C rationale:

Calculating the dosage in milliliters is not the first action to take because the medication is available in milligrams, and the order is based on weight in kilograms. Converting the weight to kilograms is the initial step to ensure that the dose is calculated correctly.

Choice D rationale:

Converting the client's weight to kilograms is the first and most crucial step in this dosage calculation. The medication order is given in milligrams per kilogram, and the client's weight is provided in pounds. To ensure accurate dosing, the nurse must convert the weight to kilograms, as this is the foundation for calculating the correct dosage in milligrams.

Choice A rationale:

A heart rate of 56 beats per minute is within the normal range for an adult, so a high temperature of 39°C (102.2°F) is not directly related to the heart rate. While elevated body temperature can increase heart rate, the given temperature does not indicate a significant fever.

Choice B rationale:

History of cigarette smoking may be a risk factor for cardiovascular issues, but it does not directly correlate with the current heart rate of 56 beats per minute. The low heart rate is more likely related to other factors.

Choice C rationale:

A heart rate of 56 beats per minute is considered bradycardia, which can lead to dizziness, fatigue, and other symptoms. Dizziness is a common finding in individuals with a slow heart rate, and addressing this symptom is essential for patient safety.

Choice D rationale:

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can cause symptoms like dizziness, but the heart rate is not typically affected directly by hypoglycemia. It is important to address both the bradycardia and the reported dizziness to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate care.