The healthcare provider prescribes the antibiotic tetracycline HCl for an adult client that arrived at an outpatient clinic. Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching plan for this client?

Choice A reason: This is the correct action to include in the client's plan of care, as sucralfate should be given on an empty stomach, at least one hour before meals and at bedtime. Sucralfate is a mucosal protectant that forms a protective barrier over the ulcer and prevents further damage from acid and pepsin. It requires an acidic environment to work, so it should not be taken with food or antacids.

Choice B reason: This is not a relevant action to include in the client's plan of care, as sucralfate does not cause or increase the risk of secondary Candida infection. Candida infection is a fungal infection that can affect the mouth, throat, esophagus, or vagina. It is more common in clients who use antibiotics, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants, but not sucralfate.

Choice C reason: This is not an accurate action to include in the client's plan of care, as sucralfate should be administered four times a day, not once a day. Sucralfate has a short duration of action, so it needs to be taken frequently to maintain its protective effect on the ulcer.

Choice D reason: This is not a necessary action to include in the client's plan of care, as sucralfate does not cause or affect electrolyte imbalance. Electrolyte imbalance is an abnormality in the levels of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, or other minerals in the blood. It can be caused by dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney disease, or other conditions, but not sucralfate.

Choice A reason: Neutropenic precautions are necessary when the WBC count is critically low, typically below the normal range. Since the client’s WBC count is now within the normal range, these precautions are no longer required.

Choice B reason: Filgrastim is designed to increase white blood cell (WBC) production in individuals with neutropenia. In this case, the client’s WBC count has increased from 2,500/mm³ (2.5 x 10⁹/L) to 5,000/mm³ (5 x 10⁹/L), reaching the lower limit of the normal reference range (5,000 to 10,000/mm³ or 5 to 10 x 10⁹/L). This indicates that the medication has achieved its desired effect, and it is appropriate to inform the client of this positive outcome.

Choice C reason:reason: Reviewing culture and sensitivity reports would be relevant if there was evidence of infection or a need to evaluate ongoing treatment for an infection. This is not indicated by the scenario provided.

Choice D reason: While assessing vital signs is generally important, there is no indication in this scenario that an acute issue requiring immediate vital sign monitoring is present.