A community health nurse is caring for a client who has noticed that their drinking water isn't clear and reports they haven't been feeling well.
The nurse should identify the client is at risk for which of the following conditions?

Choice A rationale:

Rounding the amount to be administered to the nearest whole number is a step that may be necessary, but it should not be the first action taken. The nurse should first ensure that the dosage calculation is accurate and based on the client's weight in kilograms. Once the dosage in milligrams is calculated, rounding can be considered.

Choice B rationale:

Calculating the dosage in milligrams is an essential step, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. To determine the correct dosage in milligrams, the nurse needs to convert the client's weight from pounds to kilograms first, as the medication order is given in milligrams per kilogram.

Choice C rationale:

Calculating the dosage in milliliters is not the first action to take because the medication is available in milligrams, and the order is based on weight in kilograms. Converting the weight to kilograms is the initial step to ensure that the dose is calculated correctly.

Choice D rationale:

Converting the client's weight to kilograms is the first and most crucial step in this dosage calculation. The medication order is given in milligrams per kilogram, and the client's weight is provided in pounds. To ensure accurate dosing, the nurse must convert the weight to kilograms, as this is the foundation for calculating the correct dosage in milligrams.

Choice A rationale:

Serosanguineous drainage noted on the abdominal dressing is a common finding in the early postoperative period. It is a mixture of clear and bloody drainage and is often seen after surgery. This does not typically require immediate reporting unless it becomes excessive or changes significantly. The nurse can continue to monitor and assess the situation.

Choice B rationale:

Postoperative laboratory results of Hgb 15% and Hct 40% are within the normal range for most adults, and there is no immediate need to report these results to the provider. These values suggest that the client's hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are within an acceptable range, indicating adequate oxygen-carrying capacity.

Choice C rationale:

The client's urine output has been 50 mL since surgery, which is significantly decreased and could indicate a potential issue with renal function or fluid balance. This should be reported to the provider, as it may be indicative of kidney impairment, dehydration, or other postoperative complications.

Choice D rationale:

The client's pain level decreasing after the administration of morphine is an expected response to pain management interventions. There is no need to report this information to the provider unless the pain relief is inadequate or the client experiences adverse effects. Pain management is an essential part of postoperative care, and successful pain reduction is a positive outcome.