When preparing a client for a Papanicolaou (Pap) test, which equipment is necessary for the practical nurse (PN) to provide the healthcare provider? Select all that apply.

Choice A reason: Sputum is the most appropriate specimen to collect prior to the initiation of antibiotic therapy in a client with suspected pneumonia. Sputum cultures can help identify the specific bacteria or other pathogens causing the infection, allowing for targeted antibiotic therapy. Collecting the sputum sample before starting antibiotics ensures that the culture results are not influenced by the medication, leading to more accurate identification of the causative agent and more effective treatment.
Choice B reason: Urine is not the appropriate specimen to collect for diagnosing pneumonia. While urine cultures can be useful for diagnosing urinary tract infections or detecting certain pathogens through urine antigen tests, they are not relevant to identifying the etiology of a respiratory infection like pneumonia. The focus should be on obtaining samples directly from the respiratory system.
Choice C reason: A throat smear can be useful for diagnosing upper respiratory tract infections, such as strep throat, caused by Group A Streptococcus. However, it is not the most relevant test for diagnosing pneumonia, which affects the lower respiratory tract. A sputum sample is more appropriate for identifying the pathogens responsible for pneumonia.
Choice D reason: Blood cultures can be useful for detecting bacteremia or septicemia, especially in severe cases of pneumonia where the infection has spread to the bloodstream. However, they are not the primary method for identifying the specific cause of pneumonia. Blood cultures are typically used in conjunction with other tests, such as sputum cultures, to provide a comprehensive diagnosis.

Choice A reason: Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that can cause fluid retention and increase blood pressure in some individuals. It is important for the PN to monitor the client's blood pressure and educate them about this potential side effect.
Choice B reason: Tiotropium bromide is a bronchodilator used to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While it is not commonly associated with increasing blood pressure, the PN should still be aware of any potential side effects and monitor the client's blood pressure.
Choice C reason: Ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone is a combination oral contraceptive that contains estrogen and progestin. Estrogen can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to an increase in blood pressure. The PN should educate the client about this potential side effect and monitor their blood pressure regularly.
Choice D reason: Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that can cause vasoconstriction and increase blood pressure. It is important for the PN to inform the client about this potential side effect and monitor their blood pressure closely.
Choice E reason: Albuterol sulfate is a bronchodilator used to relieve asthma symptoms. While it can cause some cardiovascular side effects, such as increased heart rate, it is not typically associated with a significant increase in blood pressure. The PN should still monitor the client's blood pressure and be aware of any potential side effects.