A client whose first child was delivered by cesarean section is 20 weeks pregnant with her second child and wishes to have a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). What information is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to obtain?

Log-rolling is a technique used to safely turn a client who requires immobilization of the spine or has limited mobility. After log-rolling the client to a lateral position, it is important to maintain proper alignment to prevent injury and promote comfort. Placing pillows strategically can help support and maintain the client's alignment in the lateral position.
The other options mentioned are not the immediate interventions following log-rolling:
B. Raising the head of the bed 30 degrees may be indicated for specific medical conditions or interventions, but it is not the immediate intervention after log-rolling.
C. Flexing the legs and placing a blanket between them is a positioning technique used for preventing skin breakdown and pressure ulcers, but it is not the immediate intervention after log-rolling.
D. Measuring the blood pressure and pulse rate is an important nursing assessment, but it is not the immediate intervention after log-rolling.

This question is related to the responsibilities and scope of practice of a practical nurse (PN) and a medication aide. A medication aide is a certified nursing assistant (CNA) who is responsible for administering daily medication to patients under the supervision of a licensed nurse, such as a PN or a registered nurse (RN). A PN is a licensed nurse who can provide routine care, observe patients’ health, assist doctors and RNs, and communicate instructions to patients regarding medication, home-based care, and preventative lifestyle changes.

Based on this information, the best action that the PN should take in this situation is c. Assign the remainder of medication administration to another PN who is performing treatments. This is because it would ensure that the medication administration is completed by another licensed nurse who has the knowledge, skills, and authority to do so. The PN who is performing treatments may have some spare time or be able to rearrange their schedule to accommodate the additional task. The PN should also communicate with the other PN and the medication aide about the situation and document the change of assignment in the patients’ records.

Option a is not a good choice, because it would be unfair and unethical to deny the medication aide’s request to leave if they are sick. The medication aide’s health and well-being are also important, and forcing them to stay and work could compromise their safety and the quality of care they provide to the patients.

Option b is not a good choice, because it would be outside the scope of practice of the UAPs to give medications to the patients. UAPs are not trained or certified to administer medications, and doing so could pose serious risks to the patients’ health and safety. The PN would also be liable for any errors or adverse outcomes that may result from the UAPs’ actions.

Option d is not a good choice, because it would not solve the problem of the medication administration being incomplete. Documenting why the medications were not given is important, but it is not enough to ensure that the patients receive their prescribed drugs and treatments. The PN still has the responsibility to find a way to complete the medication administration or delegate it to another qualified and available person.