A nurse in an emergency department is performing triage on a group of clients.
Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?

Choice A rationale:

In the SOAP charting model, the subjective component is where the client's subjective information and feelings are documented. This includes the client's own reports of symptoms, sensations, and experiences. In this case, the client reporting chest pain after mowing the lawn this morning is a subjective statement made by the client. This information is valuable as it provides insight into the client's perception of their condition and helps healthcare providers understand their symptoms and experiences.

Choice B rationale:

The blood pressure reading (182/98 mm Hg) is an objective measurement, not a subjective statement from the client. Objective data includes measurable and observable information, like vital signs, lab results, and physical examination findings. This type of information is typically documented in the objective component of SOAP charting.

Choice C rationale:

The administration of nitroglycerin (0.3 mg SL) is also an objective action taken by the client, not a subjective statement. It falls under the plan section of the SOAP chart, where healthcare providers outline the actions or interventions taken.

Choice D rationale:

The description of the client's skin (pale and diaphoretic) is also objective data. It represents observable physical signs and is not part of the subjective component, which focuses on the client's own statements and feelings.

Choice A rationale:

Material safety data sheets (MSDS) primarily contain information related to hazardous chemicals and substances used in healthcare settings. While MSDS can be valuable for safety purposes, they do not provide comprehensive information on specimen collection protocols. Therefore, MSDS is not the most appropriate source for revising the specimen collection protocol.

Choice B rationale:

Client medical records are essential for individual patient care and documentation. However, they do not contain the information needed to revise the protocol for specimen collection on the unit. Medical records are specific to individual patient histories, diagnoses, and treatments, and do not address broader unit-wide protocols.

Choice C rationale:

Facility policy and procedures are the most appropriate source for retrieving information to revise the protocol for specimen collection on the unit. These policies and procedures are specifically designed to guide healthcare providers in delivering safe and effective care within the facility. They encompass standardized protocols for various clinical procedures, including specimen collection, making them the ideal source for the nurse's research.

Choice D rationale:

Evidence-based practice (EBP) involves using the best available research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values to guide healthcare decisions. While EBP is crucial in healthcare, it is not the primary source for revising unit-specific protocols. EBP provides a broader framework for making clinical decisions but may not cover the specific policies and procedures unique to the facility.