The healthcare provider prescribes penicillin 200,000 units IM for a client with pneumonia. The available vial is labeled, "Penicillin 500,000 units/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer to this client?

(Enter numerical value only. If rounding is required, round to the nearest tenth.)

A. Administer IV fluid bolus as prescribed by the healthcare provider is not the priority unless there is evidence of hypovolemia or shock, which isn't indicated by the current vital signs alone.

B. Medicate for pain and monitor vital signs according to protocol is the most important intervention. The client's elevated heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure are likely due to inadequate pain control following a thoracotomy, a major surgical procedure known for causing significant postoperative pain. Managing the pain is crucial because uncontrolled pain can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, resulting in tachycardia, hypertension, and tachypnea. Addressing the pain effectively will help stabilize these vital signs.

C. Encourage the client to splint the incision with a pillow to cough and deep breathe is an important postoperative intervention to prevent complications such as atelectasis, but it should be done after pain is adequately controlled, as pain can inhibit the ability to deep breathe and cough effectively.

D. Apply oxygen at 10 L/minute via non-rebreather mask and monitor pulse oximeter may be necessary if there are signs of hypoxia. However, the vital sign changes here are more likely related to pain rather than respiratory distress, making pain management the immediate priority.

Correct Answers:

Indicates the Interventions Were Successful: A, B, C, D, E, F

No Indication that the Interventions Were Successful: None

Rationale:

The assessment data provided indicates a positive response to the interventions for the asthma attack. The decrease in heart rate from 112 to 105 beats per minute, alongside the client's ability to speak in full sentences without pausing, suggests an improvement in respiratory function. Clear lung sounds and a reduction in respiratory rate to 16 breaths per minute further support this conclusion. The client's subjective report of eased breathing and the maintenance of blood pressure within normal limits post-intervention are also indicative of successful treatment. These observations collectively demonstrate the effectiveness of the administered medications and oxygen therapy in managing the acute asthma symptoms presented by the client.