The physician orders pantoprazole 40mg PO daily for reflux.

The drug is supplied as 20mg tablets.

How many tablets will the nurse administer?

Choice A rationale

Dried beans, such as lentils, kidney beans, and chickpeas, are excellent sources of plant-based protein. They contain a significant amount of amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein, making them a valuable addition to a vegetarian toddler's diet to support growth and development.

Choice B rationale

Cooked carrots are primarily a source of vitamins, particularly beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), and fiber. They contain minimal amounts of protein and are not the best choice for increasing dietary protein intake in a vegetarian toddler.

Choice C rationale

Sliced bananas are a good source of carbohydrates, potassium, and some vitamins. However, they are low in protein and would not significantly contribute to increasing the dietary protein intake of a vegetarian toddler.

Choice D rationale

Whole wheat bread contains some protein, but it is not as concentrated a source as dried beans. While whole grains are important for fiber and overall nutrition, dried beans offer a higher protein content per serving, making them a better choice for increasing protein intake.

Choice A rationale

Instructing a client with dysphagia to tilt their head back while swallowing can actually increase the risk of aspiration. This position opens the airway and makes it easier for food or liquid to enter the trachea instead of the esophagus, potentially leading to pneumonia or other respiratory complications.

Choice B rationale

Elevating the client's head of the bed to 45° during meals is a crucial intervention for clients with dysphagia. This semi-Fowler's position helps to utilize gravity to facilitate the passage of food and liquids down the esophagus and reduces the risk of aspiration into the airway. Maintaining this upright posture during and shortly after meals is essential for safe swallowing.

Choice C rationale

Alternating liquids and solids during meals can help manage dysphagia by reducing the bolus size and consistency that the client needs to manage at any given time. This strategy can prevent overwhelming the client's swallowing ability and decrease the risk of aspiration by allowing for better control over different food textures.

Choice D rationale

Encouraging the client to lie flat after meals is contraindicated for clients with dysphagia. Lying flat increases the risk of regurgitation and aspiration of food or liquids into the airway. Clients with swallowing difficulties should remain in an upright or semi-upright position for at least 30-60 minutes after eating to allow for proper digestion and reduce the risk of aspiration.