A home health nurse is scheduled for a first time visit to a client. Which of the following should the nurse perform first?

Choice A reason: The best first step for a community health nurse is to connect directly with the people who are most affected by the issue. Meeting with community members allows the nurse to assess their concerns, gather information on how the playground is currently used, and explore what resources and willingness the residents have to participate in solutions. This approach promotes community engagement, empowerment, and ownership of the issue, which are critical to ensuring that any interventions are both sustainable and culturally appropriate. Without this initial dialogue, actions taken may not address the true barriers or may fail to gain community support.

Choice B reason: Partnering with city officials and community members to improve the playground condition is not the first action that the nurse should take. This is a tertiary intervention that can help to restore the playground to its optimal state, but it does not address the immediate issue of the garbage accumulation.

Choice C reason: Working with local businesses to sponsor more trash receptacles in the playground is not the first action that the nurse should take. This is a secondary intervention that can help to prevent the recurrence of the problem, but it does not address the immediate issue of the garbage accumulation.

Choice D reason: Engaging families to monitor trash buildup in the playground focuses on surveillance and maintenance, but this step requires prior discussion and buy-in from the community. Asking families to monitor the site without first understanding their concerns, availability, and willingness could lead to resistance or lack of participation. This is a useful strategy after community dialogue has occurred but not as the first step.

Choice A reason: Having the client's daughter communicate information about the procedure is not an action that the nurse should take. The daughter may not be a reliable or accurate interpreter, as she may have limited language skills, lack medical knowledge, or be influenced by her emotions or biases. The nurse should use a qualified interpreter who can ensure the confidentiality, accuracy, and completeness of the communication.

Choice B reason: Arranging for a member of the client's community to interpret the teaching is not an action that the nurse should take. The member of the client's community may not be a qualified or impartial interpreter, as he or she may have a personal or professional relationship with the client, or may have a conflict of interest or a hidden agenda. The nurse should use a professional interpreter who can maintain the boundaries, objectivity, and neutrality of the communication.

Choice C reason: Identifying the client's spoken dialect prior to contacting an interpreter is an action that the nurse should take. This will help the nurse to find an appropriate interpreter who can communicate effectively and respectfully with the client. The nurse should also consider the client's cultural background, preferences, and needs when selecting an interpreter.

Choice D reason: Using professional terminology when providing education prior to the procedure is not an action that the nurse should take. The nurse should use simple and clear language that the client can understand, and avoid using jargon, slang, or idioms that may confuse or offend the client. The nurse should also check the client's comprehension and ask for feedback throughout the communication.