The nurse observes a client prepare a meal in the kitchen of a rehabilitation facility prior to discharge. Which behavior(s) indicate the client understands how to maintain balance safely? (Select all that apply.)

Orlistat is a weight-control medication that works by inhibiting the absorption of dietary

fats in the intestines. It can also interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D, E, and K) and beta-carotene. Therefore, it is important for the client to take a multivitamin supplement to ensure an adequate intake of these essential nutrients.

However, it is recommended to take the multivitamin and orlistat at least two hours apart. This is because orlistat can potentially interfere with the absorption of the

fat-soluble vitamins in the multivitamin if taken simultaneously. By spacing them apart, the client can optimize the absorption of both the medication and the multivitamin.

Multivitamins are not contraindicated during treatment with orlistat. In fact, they are often recommended to compensate for potential nutrient deficiencies.

While orlistat may contain some vitamins and minerals, it does not provide all the recommended daily amounts. Therefore, additional supplementation may be necessary. While following a well-balanced diet is indeed important for good nutrition, it does not address the need for specific nutrient supplementation when taking orlistat. Both a balanced diet and appropriate vitamin supplementation can be beneficial in this situation.

A) Correct- Weighing the client and reporting any weight gain is a routine measurement that can be safely performed by the UAP. Weight gain can be an important indicator of fluid retention, a common issue in Cushing's syndrome.
B) Correct- Reporting any client complaints of pain or discomfort is important for monitoring the client's well-being and promptly addressing any potential issues.
C) Incorrect- Evaluating the client for sleep disturbances involves assessing the client's sleep patterns, quality, and potential disruptions. This requires nursing judgment and a deeper understanding of the client's condition and potential contributing factors, so it's not appropriate to delegate this task to the UAP.
D) Correct- Noting and reporting the client's food and liquid intake during meals and snacks is part of monitoring the client's nutritional status, which is an appropriate task for the UAP.
E) Incorrect- Assessing the client for weakness and fatigue involves a more comprehensive evaluation of the client's physical and physiological status, which requires nursing expertise. The nurse should directly assess and interpret these symptoms in the context of Cushing's syndrome to provide appropriate interventions.