A nurse is caring for a 65-year-old male client in the emergency department (ED). Exhibits For each potential provider prescription, click to specify if the prescription is expected or unexpected for the client.

Administer 0.9% sodium chloride 125 mL/hr by continuous IV infusion: Expected. The client has dehydration (dry mucous membranes, dark yellow urine, history of alcohol-related cirrhosis), so IV fluids are appropriate. Administer lorazepam: Expected. Lorazepam may be used for agitation and/or alcohol withdrawal symptoms, especially considering the client’s history of alcohol use. Initiate 1:1 supervision: Expected. The client is confused, agitated, and experiencing delirium, which increases the risk of harm to self or others. Administer acyclovir: Unexpected. Acyclovir is used for viral infections such as herpes, and there is no evidence in the scenario to suggest a viral etiology for the client’s delirium or symptoms.