The nurse is caring for a patient with emphysema and respiratory failure who is receiving mechanical ventilation through an endotracheal tube. To prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), which action is most important to include in the plan of care?

Choice A reason: Albumin is a plasma expander and is typically used to restore blood volume in cases of shock, burns, or trauma. However, it is not specifically indicated for managing spinal shock. Albumin helps in maintaining osmotic pressure and fluid balance but does not directly address the underlying pathophysiology of spinal shock.

Choice B reason: Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator used to manage hypertensive crises. It works by rapidly reducing blood pressure through vasodilation. In the context of spinal shock, where hypotension is a concern, administering nitroprusside would be inappropriate as it could exacerbate the hypotensive state and worsen the patient's condition.

Choice C reason: Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, is used to reduce inflammation and edema around the spinal cord following an injury. The anti-inflammatory properties of dexamethasone help to mitigate secondary damage caused by swelling and pressure on the spinal cord tissue. It is commonly administered in cases of acute spinal cord injuries to improve neurological outcomes and manage symptoms of spinal shock.

Choice D reason: Furosemide is a diuretic used to manage fluid overload and edema. It works by increasing urine output, which can help reduce fluid retention in various conditions, such as heart failure and renal impairment. However, it is not specifically indicated for the management of spinal shock and does not address the underlying causes of spinal cord injury-related inflammation and edema.

Choice A reason: A low-protein diet can be beneficial in reducing the workload on the kidneys by decreasing the production of waste products that need to be excreted. However, high-potassium intake is not recommended for CKD patients because their kidneys may not efficiently excrete potassium, leading to hyperkalemia, which can be dangerous.

Choice B reason: A diet high in calcium, potassium, and protein is not suitable for CKD patients. Excessive protein can increase the production of waste products, calcium intake needs to be monitored to avoid complications like calcification, and high potassium levels can lead to hyperkalemia. This combination could potentially worsen the patient's condition.

Choice C reason: A high-carbohydrate, high-protein diet is not ideal for CKD patients. While carbohydrates can provide energy, high protein intake increases the load on the kidneys. The goal is to reduce the production of waste products that the kidneys need to filter, so a high-protein diet is counterproductive.

Choice D reason: A low-protein, low-sodium, low-potassium diet is most appropriate for CKD patients. Reducing protein intake decreases the production of waste products, low sodium helps control blood pressure and fluid balance, and low potassium prevents hyperkalemia. This diet helps manage the symptoms and progression of CKD more effectively.