A client who is hypotensive is receiving dopamine, an adrenergic agonist, IV at the rate of 8 mcg/kg/min. Which intervention should the nurse implement while administering this medication?

The correct answer is: c. Leave the light on in the room at night.

Choice A: Replace the IV catheter with a smaller gauge

Replacing the IV catheter with a smaller gauge is not directly addressing the issue of the client’s confusion and agitation. While a smaller gauge might be less irritating, it does not solve the problem of the client picking at the IV site. The pinkness at the IV site suggests mild irritation or early signs of phlebitis, which can be managed by monitoring and ensuring proper securement and care of the IV site.

Choice B: Apply soft bilateral wrist restraints

Applying wrist restraints should be a last resort due to the potential for causing distress, agitation, and physical harm to the patient. Restraints can lead to negative outcomes such as decreased circulation, pressure ulcers, and increased agitation, especially in patients with dementia. It is generally recommended to use less restrictive measures first.

Choice C: Leave the light on in the room at night

Leaving the light on in the room at night (C) can help reduce confusion and agitation in dementia patients, a phenomenon known as sundowning. However, it does not address the immediate issue of the non-occlusive dressing and the pink IV insertion site.

Choice D: Redress the abdominal incision

Given the situation, the most appropriate intervention would be to redress the abdominal incision (D). This is because the dressing is no longer occlusive, which can increase the risk of infection. Ensuring the dressing is secure and clean is crucial for the patient's safety.

Choice B is correct because anxiety is the priority nursing problem for this client who starts to cry and states, "I just know I can't handle all the pain." Anxiety is a feeling of fear, nervousness, or apprehension that can interfere with coping and decision making. The nurse should assess the level and source of anxiety and provide emotional support and reassurance to the client. The nurse should also review the pain management techniques and explain the benefits and risks of different analgesic options.

Choice A is incorrect because knowledge deficit is not the priority nursing problem for this client who starts to cry and states, "I just know I can't handle all the pain." Knowledge deficit is a lack of information or understanding about a topic or situation that can affect learning and behavior. The nurse should evaluate the client's learning needs and provide appropriate education and resources, but this is not as urgent as addressing the client's anxiety.

Choice C is incorrect because pain intolerance is not the priority nursing problem for this client who starts to cry and states, "I just know I can't handle all the pain." Pain intolerance is an inability or unwillingness to endure pain that can affect quality of life and recovery. The nurse should assess the client's pain level and response to analgesics and adjust the pain management plan accordingly, but this is not as urgent as addressing the client's anxiety.

Choice D is incorrect because anticipatory grieving is not the priority nursing problem for this client who starts to cry and states, "I just know I can't handle all the pain." Anticipatory grieving is a process of mourning that occurs before an expected loss or death that can affect emotional and physical well-being. The nurse should acknowledge the client's feelings and provide empathy and support, but this is not as urgent as addressing the client's anxiety.