A male client tells the practical nurse (PN) that he is afraid of getting cancer so he plans to quit smoking cigarettes by switching to a smokeless tobacco product. How should the PN respond?

When a client's family member expresses concerns about the care provided, it is essential for the nurse to gather more information and understand the specific issues raised. By asking for a description of what happened during the night, the nurse can obtain details about the perceived inadequate care. This allows the nurse to gather accurate information, assess the situation, and address any legitimate concerns.
A. Explaining that all staff are doing their best may not address the specific issues raised by the daughter and may not provide a satisfactory resolution to her concerns.
B. Telling the daughter to talk with the unit's nurse manager can be an appropriate step, but it should come after gathering information about the situation. The nurse needs to have a clear understanding of what happened before involving the nurse manager.
C. Reassuring the daughter that the mother will get better care may not address her concerns and may not provide a solution to the perceived problem. It is important to gather more information before offering reassurance or making promises.

The action the practical nurse (PN) should take in this situation is to administer a prescribed PRN (as needed) dose of analgesic.
Severe burning pain along the right side of the trunk is a common symptom of herpes zoster (shingles). Managing the client's pain is an important aspect of care to provide comfort and promote healing. Administering a prescribed PRN dose of analgesic will help alleviate the client's pain and improve their overall well-being. It is crucial to follow the client's prescribed medication regimen and provide pain relief as needed.
The other options are not the most appropriate actions in this situation:

B. Notifying the nursing supervisor of uncontrolled pain may be necessary if the client's pain persists despite appropriate interventions. However, the first step should be to administer an analgesic to address the immediate pain.
C. Giving the next prescribed dose of antiviral medication is important in the treatment of herpes zoster, but it does not directly address the client's current severe burning pain. Analgesics are specifically designed to alleviate pain symptoms.
D. Obtaining an oxygen tank for home administration is not indicated for the management of pain associated with herpes zoster. Oxygen therapy is typically used for respiratory or circulatory conditions and would not be the appropriate intervention for the client's symptom of severe burning pain.