A client with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is receiving dicyclomine, an anticholinergic drug. Prior to administering the next dose, the practical nurse (PN) determines that the client's mucous membranes are dry, and the client reports having a dry mouth. Which action should the PN take

This comment by the practical nurse (PN) is likely to be the most helpful to the client. By offering to sit with the client, the PN shows empathy, support, and a willingness to provide companionship. This approach acknowledges the client's feelings of isolation and offers a listening ear. It provides an opportunity for the client to express his emotions, thoughts, or concerns if he wishes to do so. The presence of a caring and compassionate individual can help alleviate some of the client's feelings of loneliness and may encourage him to open up and engage in conversation or activities when he is ready.

A. "Come into the recreation area. We have your favorite card game and I will play it with you."
This choice assumes that engaging in a specific activity will automatically help the client and solve his current feelings of reclusiveness. While offering an activity may be beneficial in some cases, it is important to first address the client's emotional state and provide support before suggesting specific activities. Pushing the client to participate in an activity without acknowledging his current feelings may further alienate him and not address the underlying issues causing his reclusive behavior.
B. "Why do you want to stay in your room today?"
This choice may come across as confrontational or judgmental. Asking why the client wants to stay in his room implies that there is something wrong with his decision or that he needs to justify his behavior. This approach may make the client defensive or withdraw further. It is essential to create a safe and supportive environment where the client feels understood and validated, rather than questioning his choices.
C. "I know you are sad about not seeing your family as often, but they are visiting as much as they can."
While acknowledging the client's sadness about not seeing his family is important, dismissing his feelings by stating that his family is visiting as much as they can minimize or invalidate his emotions. It is crucial to provide empathy and validate the client's emotions without making assumptions or downplaying his experiences. This approach may not address the client's current state of reclusiveness or provide the support he needs.

- A terminally ill client is a client who has a progressive and incurable disease or condition that is expected to result in death within a short period of time, such as months or weeks. A terminally ill client may require palliative care, which is the care that focuses on relieving pain and suffering and improving the quality of life for the client and their family.
- An admission assessment is the process of collecting information about a client's health status, needs, preferences, and goals when they are admitted to a health care facility, such as a hospital, nursing home, or hospice. An admission assessment helps to establish a baseline for the client's condition, plan and implement appropriate interventions, and evaluate the outcomes of care.
- A health care proxy is a legal document that allows a client to appoint another person, such as a family member or a friend, to make health care decisions for them if they become unable to do so themselves. A health care proxy may also include specific instructions or preferences about the type and extent of care that the client wishes to receive or refuse, such as life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, or organ donation.
- Health care proxy documentation is important information that the practical nurse (PN) should collect during the admission assessment of a terminally ill client to an acute care facility, as it reflects the client's autonomy, dignity, and wishes regarding their end-of-life care. It also helps to ensure that the client's healthcare decisions are respected and followed by the healthcare team and the facility.

- Therefore, option A is the correct answer, while options B, C, and D are incorrect.