A newly hired unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) expresses fear to the charge nurse about collecting a sputum specimen from a client who is HIV positive. Which action should the charge nurse take first?

Choice A reason: This client has signs of dehydration and fluid volume deficit, which can lead to shock, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's organs are not receiving enough blood flow. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, urine output, skin color, and level of consciousness, and report any changes to the physician.

Choice B reason: Initiating enteric precaution procedures is important to prevent the spread of infection, as vomiting and diarrhea may be caused by a contagious pathogen. However, this is not the most important action for the nurse to implement, as it does not address the client's immediate risk of shock.

Choice C reason: Reducing light, noise and temperature may help the client feel more comfortable and reduce nausea, but it is not the most important action for the nurse to implement, as it does not address the client's fluid volume deficit and potential shock.

Choice D reason: Encouraging electrolyte supplements may help replenish the electrolytes lost through vomiting and diarrhea, but it is not the most important action for the nurse to implement, as it may not be enough to restore the fluid balance and prevent shock. The client may need intravenous fluids and medications to correct the dehydration and hypotension.

Choice A Reason: Ensuring the transfer of the client's electronic chart code is not the most important action for the nurse to take first. The electronic chart code is a unique identifier that allows access to the client's health records and care plan. While this is an important task, it is not as urgent or essential as giving a detailed report to the accepting nurse, who will be responsible for providing palliative care to the client.

Choice B Reason: Giving a detailed report to the accepting nurse is the most important action for the nurse to take first. The report should include the client's diagnosis, prognosis, pain level, medication regimen, preferences, goals, and psychosocial needs. This will ensure continuity of care and facilitate a smooth transition for the client and the family.

Choice C Reason: Taking the family to the client's new room is not the most important action for the nurse to take first. The family may need emotional support and guidance during this difficult time, but they also need accurate and timely information about the client's condition and care plan. The nurse should first give a detailed report to the accepting nurse and then accompany the family to the new room.

Choice D Reason: Giving the client written information about end-of-life care is not the most important action for the nurse to take first. The client may benefit from learning more about palliative care, hospice care, advance directives, and bereavement services, but this should be done after giving a detailed report to the accepting nurse and ensuring that the client is comfortable and stable in the new room.