A nurse delegates a specific intervention to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). What implications does this have for the nurse?

Choice A rationale:

Maintaining the patient in a supine position during rest would not be appropriate for a client with shortness of breath. This position can worsen breathing difficulties, especially in clients with respiratory issues. It reduces lung expansion and can lead to increased work of breathing.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation hourly is the appropriate intervention for a client with shortness of breath. Oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels indicate the percentage of oxygen bound to hemoglobin in the blood. Monitoring SpO2 levels helps assess the client's oxygenation status and provides crucial information about the effectiveness of respiratory interventions. Normal oxygen saturation levels typically range between 95% to 100%. Monitoring allows timely recognition of hypoxemia, enabling prompt intervention to improve oxygenation and prevent complications.

Choice C rationale:

Ambulating the client in the hall four times daily may not be suitable for a client experiencing shortness of breath, as it can exacerbate respiratory distress. Ambulation increases oxygen demand and can further compromise oxygenation in individuals struggling to breathe.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging high protein foods during mealtime is unrelated to the immediate management of shortness of breath. While proper nutrition is essential for overall health and healing, it does not directly address the acute issue of respiratory distress.

Choice A rationale:

Restrain the patient with a chemical sedative. Rationale: Restraints, especially chemical sedatives, should be avoided whenever possible due to the risk of complications and patient distress. Restraints can lead to decreased mobility, increased agitation, and other adverse effects. They should only be used as a last resort and with appropriate justification, such as ensuring patient or staff safety in emergency situations.

Choice B rationale:

Encourage the patient to use grab bars located near toilets and showers. Rationale: Installing grab bars in bathrooms helps prevent falls by providing support and stability for patients, especially those with mobility issues. Encouraging their use promotes patient independence and safety while performing essential activities of daily living.

Choice C rationale:

Place the call light within the patient's reach. Rationale: Placing the call light within the patient's reach ensures that the patient can easily summon assistance when needed. Prompt response to patient requests can prevent accidents and falls by addressing the patient's needs in a timely manner.

Choice D rationale:

Conduct rounds every four hours. Rationale: Conducting regular rounds allows healthcare providers to assess the patient's condition, address their needs, and identify potential fall risks. However, the specific frequency of rounds may vary based on the patient's condition and the healthcare facility's policies. Some patients may require more frequent monitoring, especially if they are at a higher risk of falling.

Choice E rationale:

Apply brakes on wheelchairs and beds. Rationale: Applying brakes on wheelchairs and beds prevents unintended movement, enhancing patient safety and reducing the risk of falls. It ensures that the patient's mobility aids remain stationary, providing stability when the patient is transferring or repositioning.