Which problem reported by a client taking lovastatin requires the most immediate follow-up by the nurse?

Choice A rationale:

Supplemental oxygen is given to the patient to prevent hypoxia and tissue damage due to pneumonia. Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Hypoxia occurs when the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level. It can cause serious damage to your heart, brain, and other organs. Hence, supplemental oxygen is administered to ensure that the patient’s tissues receive adequate oxygen.

Choice B rationale:

While supplemental oxygen can indirectly help lower blood pressure by improving oxygen supply and reducing strain on the heart, it is not primarily used for this purpose. Enalapril, which the patient is already taking, is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that is commonly used to lower blood pressure and reduce the workload of the heart.

Choice C rationale:

Supplemental oxygen does increase the oxygen saturation and improve respiratory function. However, this is a more general rationale for providing supplemental oxygen and not specific to this patient’s condition of pneumonia.

Choice D rationale:

Supplemental oxygen does not directly dilate the bronchioles or decrease inflammation in the lungs. Medications such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids are typically used for these purposes. In this case, supplemental oxygen is being used to prevent hypoxia and tissue damage due to pneumonia.

Choice A rationale:

Substituting natural fruit juices for carbonated drinks may be a beneficial dietary change, but it does not address the client's immediate issue of severe pain and inability to bear weight on the right ankle. This choice does not directly address the client's current problem and should not be the priority instruction in discharge teaching.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging active range of motion to limit stiffness is the most appropriate instruction in this situation. The client's inability to bear weight on the right ankle after making dietary changes may be related to musculoskeletal issues or gouty arthritis. Active range of motion exercises can help prevent stiffness and improve joint function.

Choice C rationale:

Using an electric heating pad when pain is at its worst may provide some comfort, but it does not address the underlying cause of the severe pain in the right ankle. It is important to address the cause of the pain rather than relying solely on symptom management.

Choice D rationale:

Avoiding the consumption of wine, beer, and coffee may be relevant for some medical conditions, but it does not directly address the client's current problem of severe ankle pain and inability to bear weight. It is not the most immediate concern.