A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) reports increased shortness of breath with activity.
Which test should the nurse schedule the client for evaluation of the symptoms?

.Administer a stool softener: This could be a good option to consider, as the client has not had a bowel movement since the surgery. However, the nurse should first consult with the healthcare provider before administering any new medications.

B.Ask the client about their normal bowel routine: This is a good action to take. Understanding the client’s normal bowel routine can provide valuable context for the current situation.

C.Hold the client’s next meal: This may not be necessary at this point. The client’s regular diet has been ordered by the provider, and there’s no indication of nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms that would necessitate holding meals.

D.Perform a digital rectal exam: This could be considered if there’s a concern about impaction or other complications. However, this should only be done after consulting with the healthcare provider.

E.Discontinue morphine: This is not advisable based on the information provided. The client is reporting uncontrolled pain, and morphine has been ordered by the provider for pain management. Any changes to pain medication should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Choice A rationale

While securing the room with padded walls and minimal furnishings is an important aspect of seclusion, it is not the most important intervention immediately after seclusion. The safety of the client is paramount, and observing for extrapyramidal symptoms, such as dystonia, is crucial as haloperidol, an antipsychotic medication known to have the potential for causing extrapyramidal side effects, was administered.

Choice B rationale

Releasing the client as soon as composure is regained is not the most important intervention. The client’s mental and physical health needs to be continuously monitored, especially for side effects of the medication administered.

Choice C rationale

Providing one-on-one observation at all times is important, but it is not the most important intervention immediately after seclusion. The priority is to monitor for any adverse effects of the medication administered.

Choice D rationale

Observing for extrapyramidal symptoms, such as dystonia, is the most important intervention immediately after seclusion because haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication known to have the potential for causing extrapyramidal side effects.