The healthcare provider prescribes an IV solution of clindamycin 850 mg in 75 ml of D5W to infuse over 30 minutes.

The drop factor is 15 gtt/mL. The nurse should regulate the IV to deliver how many gtt/minute? (Enter numeric value only. If rounding is required, round to the nearest whole number.)

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Auscultating bowel sounds and measuring abdominal girth are not directly related to the management of erosive esophagitis and GERD symptoms. These actions are more pertinent to assessing gastrointestinal motility and distension, not the effectiveness of lansoprazole.

Choice B rationale: Lansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that should be taken before meals to reduce stomach acid production effectively. Confirming that the patient is taking the medication before meals could help optimize its efficacy but is not the most immediate step.

Choice C rationale: Notifying the healthcare provider about a potential need for a dosage change may be considered if symptoms persist. However, since healing with proton pump inhibitors can take several weeks, this action may be premature after only one week of use.

Choice D rationale: It is appropriate to inform the patient that healing of erosive esophagitis and symptom relief from GERD can take several weeks with lansoprazole. This education helps set realistic expectations and encourages adherence to the prescribed treatment.

Choice A rationale:

Sterile gloves are not necessary for routine oral care, even in the presence of oral Candida albicans.

Standard precautions, which include the use of gloves, are sufficient to protect the UAP from exposure to blood and body fluids.

Sterile gloves would only be indicated for invasive procedures, such as oral surgery or deep tissue sampling.

Choice B rationale:

Delegating oral care to the UAP is appropriate, as it is a routine task that does not require the specialized skills of a nurse.

The nurse should provide clear instructions to the UAP on how to perform oral care, but it is not necessary for the nurse to complete the task themselves.

Choice C rationale:

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is important for patients with oral Candida albicans, as it can help to remove plaque and debris without further irritating the delicate tissues of the mouth.

A soft-bristled toothbrush is less likely to cause bleeding or pain than a harder-bristled toothbrush.

Choice D rationale:

Mouthwash is not typically recommended for patients with oral Candida albicans, as it can actually dry out the mouth and worsen symptoms.

In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe a special antifungal mouthwash, but this should only be used under their supervision.