A male client with a chronic medical condition tells the practical nurse (PN) that he wants no heroics to prolong his life if anything should happen to him. Which action should the PN take?

Taking a rectal temperature requires a higher level of skill and carries a higher risk of injury compared to other methods, especially when dealing with a 2-year-old child with leukemia. Given the client's condition, it is important to minimize any potential harm or discomfort. Taking a tympanic temperature is a safer alternative that provides an accurate reading without the risk of injury.
B. Reminding the UAP to lubricate the thermometer before insertion is not appropriate because the PN should not encourage or support the UAP in performing a rectal temperature on a high-risk client. The focus should be on using a safer and less invasive method.
C. Instructing the UAP to report the results to the PN immediately is not necessary in this situation because the PN has already determined that taking a rectal temperature is not appropriate.
Instead, the PN should guide the UAP toward using the tympanic method.

D. Observing the UAP to ensure the thermometer is inserted correctly is not appropriate in this case because the PN has already determined that taking a rectal temperature is not the recommended course of action. It is more appropriate to redirect the UAP to use an alternative method.

The client is prescribed oxygen at 3 liters per minute, but the flowmeter shows that only 1 liter of oxygen is being delivered. This indicates an inadequate oxygen supply and immediate action is required to adjust the flow rate to meet the prescribed oxygen requirement. Failure to provide the appropriate oxygen flow rate can compromise the client's respiratory status and oxygenation. The PN should promptly increase the flow rate to the prescribed level to ensure the client receives the necessary oxygen therapy.
The other assessment findings mentioned are also important to note and address, but they do not require immediate action:
A. The client lying in a supine position in bed: While it is generally recommended for clients receiving oxygen therapy to be in an upright or semi-upright position, this finding does not require immediate action unless there are specific indications or contraindications related to the client's condition.
B. The cannula pressed snugly against the client's cheeks: The cannula should fit comfortably and securely on the client's face without causing discomfort or pressure areas. While this finding may require adjustment to ensure proper fit and comfort, it does not require immediate action unless it is causing harm or compromising oxygen delivery.
D. There is no humidifier attached to the delivery system: While a humidifier may be recommended to add moisture to the oxygen, its absence does not pose an immediate threat to the client's safety or require immediate action. The need for humidification depends on the client's condition and comfort level, and it can be addressed by attaching a humidifier if necessary.