The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client with fractured metatarsals after slamming a hand in the car door. After administering the prescribed hydrocodone/acetaminophen for pain, which intervention should the PN include in the client's care?

A. Observe the client for involuntary movements of the lips and tongue: Involuntary movements are typically associated with long-term use of certain medications, such as antipsychotics, rather than short-term opioid therapy for acute pain. B. Assess the skin daily for areas of ecchymosis or other signs of bleeding: While skin assessment is important, hydrocodone/acetaminophen does not commonly cause bleeding, so this is not a primary intervention for this client. C. Encourage the client to resume normal activities after medication administration: Activity should be resumed cautiously based on pain level and mobility limitations. Encouraging full activity immediately may risk injury to the fractured metatarsals. D. Implement ongoing assessments for signs of shallow or slow breathing: Opioids like hydrocodone can depress the central nervous system and respiratory drive. Monitoring for respiratory depression is essential to ensure client safety after administration.