A nurse in a long-term care facility is reviewing the facility documentation policies with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following abbreviations should the nurse remind the newly licensed nurse to use when documenting care?

A) Administer prescribed insulin:

Administering insulin is an essential aspect of managing type 1 diabetes mellitus, but before administering insulin, it's crucial to assess the client's current blood glucose level to determine the appropriate insulin dosage. Administering insulin without knowing the client's blood glucose level could lead to hypoglycemia if the blood glucose level is already low.

B) Check the calibration of the glucometer:

While it's important to ensure that the glucometer is calibrated correctly for accurate blood glucose readings, this step can be performed after obtaining the client's blood glucose level. Checking the calibration of the glucometer does not directly address the immediate need to assess the client's blood glucose level.

C) Obtain the client's capillary blood glucose level:

This is the most appropriate action to take first when providing morning care to a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Assessing the client's blood glucose level allows the nurse to determine the client's current glycemic status and make informed decisions about subsequent care, including insulin administration and breakfast provision.

D) Provide the client's breakfast:

Providing breakfast is an important aspect of morning care for a client with diabetes, but it should be done after assessing the client's blood glucose level. Depending on the client's blood glucose level, the nurse may need to adjust the timing or composition of the breakfast to ensure optimal glycemic control.

A) Administer PRN haloperidol IM to the client:

Administering haloperidol is not the first-line intervention for managing behavioral disturbances in clients with dementia, especially in response to acute agitation. While antipsychotic medications like haloperidol may be prescribed in some cases, they should be used judiciously due to the risk of adverse effects, particularly in elderly clients. Additionally, administering medication should not be the first action taken without attempting non-pharmacological interventions.

B) Engage the client in a repetitive activity as a distraction:

This is the most appropriate initial intervention when dealing with an agitated client with dementia. Engaging the client in a repetitive, calming activity can help redirect their focus and reduce agitation. Simple, familiar tasks or activities tailored to the client's preferences can be effective in providing comfort and reducing distress.

C) Apply wrist restraints to the client:

Using physical restraints should be avoided unless absolutely necessary for the safety of the client or others. Restraints can cause physical and psychological harm, increase agitation, and compromise the client's dignity and autonomy. Therefore, restraint use should be a last resort and implemented only after other interventions have been attempted and deemed ineffective or when there is an imminent risk of harm.

D) Place the client in a seclusion room:

Seclusion should not be used as an initial intervention for managing agitation in clients with dementia. Seclusion can exacerbate distress and increase feelings of isolation and fear, which may escalate agitation further. It should only be considered as a last resort for managing severe agitation or aggression when all other interventions have failed and there is a risk of harm to the client or others.