A community hit by a hurricane has suffered mass destruction and flooding. Sewage facilities are non-functioning, and water is contaminated in the area. The practical nurse (PN) is assisting with the plan of care for clients diagnosed with cholera after an outbreak. Which intervention has the highest priority?

Choice A rationale:

Urinary output is not directly related to stomatitis, which is inflammation of the mouth and throat. While monitoring urinary output is important in many situations, it is not relevant in this case.

Choice B rationale:

Blood pressure while standing is not directly related to stomatitis either. This assessment is more relevant for conditions such as orthostatic hypotension, which can cause a drop in blood pressure upon standing.

Choice C rationale:

Ability to swallow is crucial in the context of stomatitis. Stomatitis can cause painful sores in the mouth, making it difficult for the client to eat or drink. Assessing the client's ability to swallow will help determine the impact of stomatitis on their nutritional intake and overall well-being.

Choice D rationale:

Frequency of bowel movements is unrelated to stomatitis. This assessment is more relevant for gastrointestinal issues or constipation, not for a condition affecting the mouth and throat.

The correct answer is Choice A:

Assist in turning the client to one side. Choice A rationale:

When preparing a client with obstructive sleep apnea for sleep, the practical nurse (PN) should assist the client in turning to one side. This position is known as the lateral position and can be beneficial for clients with obstructive sleep apnea. Lying on one's side can help to reduce the likelihood of airway obstruction and minimize the occurrence of apnea (pauses in breathing) during sleep. This position promotes better airflow and can improve the client's overall sleep quality.

Choice B rationale:

Keeping oral suction equipment nearby (Choice B) might be appropriate for clients with respiratory issues or a risk of airway obstruction. However, it is not the best action for a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea primarily involves upper airway collapse, not excessive secretions or obstructions in the oral cavity.

Choice C rationale:

Offering to bring the client a sleeping pill (Choice C) is not an appropriate action for a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated episodes of blocked or restricted airflow during sleep. Sedative medications can further relax the muscles in the airway, worsening the condition and potentially leading to more severe apnea.

Choice D rationale:

Placing a cool air humidifier in the room (Choice D) may be helpful for clients who experience dryness or congestion in the airways during sleep. However, it is not specifically indicated for obstructive sleep apnea. While humidifiers can be beneficial for some sleep-related issues, they do not address the underlying cause of sleep apnea.