The practical nurse (PN) is preparing a client for discharge who receives a prescription for oral prednisone to treat a severe allergic reaction. Which teaching about medication administration should the PN reinforce?

The correct answer is: a. Paper tape, b. Small gauze pad, and d. Exam gloves.

Choice A: Paper tape

Reason: Paper tape is used to secure the gauze pad over the site after the saline lock is removed. It is gentle on the skin and helps to keep the gauze in place, preventing any bleeding or infection at the site.

Choice B: Small gauze pad

Reason: A small gauze pad is essential to apply pressure to the site after the saline lock is removed. This helps to stop any bleeding and provides a clean, sterile covering for the site.

Choice C: Sterile gloves

Reason: Sterile gloves are not necessary for this procedure. Exam gloves are sufficient to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection during the removal of the saline lock.

Choice D: Exam gloves

Reason: Exam gloves are used to maintain hygiene and prevent infection during the procedure. They provide adequate protection for both the nurse and the patient.

Choice E: Three mL syringe

Reason: A three mL syringe is not required for the removal of a saline lock. Syringes are typically used for flushing the saline lock, not for its removal.

The client's complaint of a leg cramp suggests the possibility of a muscle cramp or spasm, which is a common occurrence during labor. Extending the leg and flexing the foot helps stretch and relax the affected muscle, which can alleviate the cramp. This intervention helps relieve the muscle spasm and promotes increased blood circulation to the area, potentially reducing the intensity and duration of the cramp.
A. Elevating the leg above the heart is not necessary for relieving a leg cramp. It may be helpful in certain situations, such as in the case of venous insufficiency or swelling, but it is not the First-line intervention for a leg cramp.

B. Massaging the calf and foot can be beneficial in relieving a leg cramp. However, the initial action should be to extend the leg and flex the foot to actively stretch the affected muscle. If the cramp persists or if additional comfort measures are needed, then the PN may consider massaging the calf and foot.
D. Checking the pedal pulse in the affected leg is not directly related to relieving a leg cramp. It may be a relevant assessment in certain situations, such as suspected circulatory compromise or deep vein thrombosis, but it is not the primary intervention for a leg cramp.