The healthcare provider prescribed octreotide 150 mcg/day subcutaneously for a client with dumping syndrome. The medication is available in 0.2 mg/mL vials. How many mL should the practical nurse (PN) administer? (Enter numerical value only. If rounding is required, round to the nearest hundredth).

The correct answer is Choice C:

Gather the procedure tray and equipment. Choice A rationale:

Placing the client in an orthopneic position (sitting upright and leaning forward) is not necessary for a thoracentesis procedure. The position may be uncomfortable for the client and does not facilitate the procedure.

Choice B rationale:

Keeping the client NPO (nothing by mouth) and encouraging them to void before the procedure is not directly relevant to a thoracentesis. NPO status might be indicated for other procedures requiring anesthesia but not for a bedside thoracentesis.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct choice. The PN should prepare by gathering the procedure tray and equipment before the healthcare provider arrives to perform the thoracentesis. This ensures that all necessary items are readily available for the procedure.

Choice D rationale:

Cleansing the site and covering it with a sterile towel is a task usually performed by the healthcare provider who will be performing the thoracentesis. The PN's role is to prepare the necessary equipment and assist the provider during the procedure.

Choice A rationale:

Reporting the incident to the family is not the first action the PN should take in this situation. It may be appropriate to inform the family later if necessary, but immediate action is needed to address the boundaries being crossed in the client's room.

Choice B rationale:

Requesting that the man get up and leave is not the first action the PN should take. This situation involves delicate and sensitive issues, and the PN should prioritize the client's privacy, dignity, and emotional well-being.

Choice C rationale:

The most appropriate first action is for the PN to exit the room and quietly close the door. This action respects the client's privacy and allows the couple to have some space and time to compose themselves.

Choice D rationale:

Asking when the nurse should return is not the first action to take. The PN needs to ensure the client's privacy and deal with the situation at hand discreetly. Later, the PN can discuss the incident with the client if necessary, or involve the appropriate authorities as per the facility's policy.