A client reports experiencing numbness and tingling in the extremities. Which of the client's serum laboratory values should the practical nurse (PN) prioritize reporting to the healthcare provider?

The action the practical nurse (PN) should take in this situation is to administer a prescribed PRN (as needed) dose of analgesic.
Severe burning pain along the right side of the trunk is a common symptom of herpes zoster (shingles). Managing the client's pain is an important aspect of care to provide comfort and promote healing. Administering a prescribed PRN dose of analgesic will help alleviate the client's pain and improve their overall well-being. It is crucial to follow the client's prescribed medication regimen and provide pain relief as needed.
The other options are not the most appropriate actions in this situation:

B. Notifying the nursing supervisor of uncontrolled pain may be necessary if the client's pain persists despite appropriate interventions. However, the first step should be to administer an analgesic to address the immediate pain.
C. Giving the next prescribed dose of antiviral medication is important in the treatment of herpes zoster, but it does not directly address the client's current severe burning pain. Analgesics are specifically designed to alleviate pain symptoms.
D. Obtaining an oxygen tank for home administration is not indicated for the management of pain associated with herpes zoster. Oxygen therapy is typically used for respiratory or circulatory conditions and would not be the appropriate intervention for the client's symptom of severe burning pain.

A. "Place a 'Do Not Resuscitate' sign outside the client's door and at the bedside."
A DNR order must be written by the healthcare provider and documented in the medical record. A sign alone is not sufficient to ensure the client’s wishes are followed.

B. "Reassure the client that life-saving measures will not be taken without consent."
While reassuring the client is important, the client’s wishes must be documented formally through an advance directive, which is legally binding and ensures that medical staff are aware of and follow the client’s instructions.

C. "Complete an advance directive form and place it in the medical record."
While completing an advance directive is important, the first priority is notifying the healthcare provider so that the client’s wishes can be documented and the proper legal forms can be completed.

D. "Notify the client's healthcare provider of the client's wishes as soon as possible."
The nurse should immediately notify the healthcare provider of the client’s wishes. The healthcare provider can then initiate the appropriate legal documentation, such as a DNR order or an advance directive, ensuring the client’s wishes are respected in the future. This is the first step in ensuring that the client’s preferences are followed.