An adult with arthritis has been receiving treatment with naproxen and now reports ongoing stomach pain, increasing weakness, and fatigue. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor?

Choice A reason: When the client has ankle edema, it is important for the nurse to assess for other signs of fluid retention, such as weight gain, jugular venous distension, and crackles in the lungs. However, ankle edema alone is not a specific indicator of preeclampsia or eclampsia, which are conditions that can cause hyperreflexia or increased DTRs.

Choice B reason: This is the correct answer because if the client has an elevated blood pressure, it is important for the nurse to assess for other signs of preeclampsia or eclampsia, such as proteinuria, headache, blurred vision, epigastric pain, and hyperreflexia or increased DTRs. These conditions can cause seizures and other complications that can endanger the mother and fetus.

Choice C reason: During admission to labor and delivery, it is important for the nurse to assess various aspects of the client's health status, such as vital signs, fetal heart rate, contractions, cervical dilation, and pain level. However, assessing DTRs is not a routine part of labor and delivery assessment unless there are signs of preeclampsia or eclampsia.

Choice D reason: Within the first trimester of pregnancy, it is important for the nurse to assess for signs of pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting, bleeding, infection, and ectopic pregnancy. However, assessing DTRs is not a routine part of first trimester assessment unless there are signs of neurological disorders or spinal cord injury.

Choice A reason: a quiet, non-stimulating environment can help reduce the agitation, confusion, and hallucinations that are common in alcohol withdrawal delirium. The nurse should also provide reassurance, orientation, and safety measures to the client.

Choice B reason: forcing oral fluids and providing frequent small meals are not the most important interventions for a client with alcohol withdrawal delirium. The client may have difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea that can interfere with oral intake. The nurse should monitor the client's hydration and nutrition status and provide intravenous fluids or supplements as needed.

Choice C reason: confronting the client's denial of substance abuse is not the most important intervention for a client with alcohol withdrawal delirium. The client may not be able to comprehend or accept the reality of their situation due to their altered mental state. The nurse should avoid arguing or challenging the client and focus on providing supportive care.

Choice D reason: encouraging attendance and group participation are not the most important interventions for a client with alcohol withdrawal delirium. The client may not be able to participate in group activities due to their severe withdrawal symptoms and may need individualized care. The nurse should facilitate referrals to appropriate resources for substance abuse treatment when the client is stable and ready.