A client who has atrial fibrillation is prescribed warfarin therapy.

Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?

The correct answer is choice B. “You seem quite frightened right now.”.

Choice A rationale:

While reassuring the client that no one will hurt them is well-intentioned, it may not effectively address the client’s immediate emotional state or validate their feelings.

Choice B rationale:

Acknowledging the client’s fear helps validate their emotions and opens a pathway for further therapeutic communication. It shows empathy and understanding, which can help build trust and provide comfort.

Choice C rationale:

Telling the client they are in a safe place is reassuring, but it may not fully address the client’s immediate emotional distress or validate their feelings.

Choice D rationale:

Asking the client what they would like the nurse to do to protect them might reinforce the delusion and could potentially escalate the situation. It is more effective to acknowledge the client’s feelings and provide reassurance.

Choice A rationale:

While it’s important to monitor for any adverse reactions following a vaccination, not all fevers are serious. Mild fever can be a common side effect of vaccinations and is usually not a cause for concern. However, if the child develops a high fever, or if the fever is accompanied by other severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or extreme lethargy, it should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

Choice B rationale:

There is no need to keep the child home from daycare following the Hib vaccine unless the child is feeling unwell or has other symptoms that warrant staying home. The Hib vaccine is not a live vaccine, so the child cannot transmit the vaccine strain to others.

Choice C rationale:

Applying a cool pack to the injection site can help reduce discomfort or swelling that may occur after the vaccination. This is a safe and effective method for managing minor side effects of vaccinations.

Choice D rationale:

Aspirin should not be given to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain. Instead, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to help manage any pain or fever following the vaccination, if approved by a healthcare provider. Always follow the dosing instructions on the package and consult with a healthcare provider if unsure.