A nurse in an outpatient clinic is caring for a client

Vital Signs
BP 124/68 mm Hg
Heart rate 80/min

Temperature 37° C (98.6° F) Respiratory rate 16/min Weight 67.1 kg (148 lb)

Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the client's teaching? Select all that apply. 

Choice A rationale:

A toddler running with a wide stance is a common behavior at this age and does not necessarily indicate developmental delay. Toddlers often develop a wide base of support as they learn to balance and walk more confidently.

Choice B rationale:

Falling when throwing a ball overhand requires coordination and motor skills. By the age of 24 months, most toddlers can throw a ball with some degree of accuracy. Inability to do so may indicate a developmental delay in motor skills, making choice B the correct answer.

Choice C rationale:

Referring to oneself by name is a typical language development milestone around the age of 24 months. It demonstrates a basic understanding of self-identity and language, indicating appropriate developmental progress. This choice does not suggest a delay.

Choice D rationale:

Going up stairs with two feet on each step is a gross motor skill that toddlers typically develop around 36 months of age. It requires balance and coordination. While it is advanced for a 24-month-old, it is not necessarily a sign of developmental delay. Therefore, this choice does not provide a clear indication of delay.

Based on the information provided, the nurse should consider the following client findings for further evaluation:

A. Weight: The client's weight loss of 5 pounds (2.26 kg) over the last week needs further evaluation as it could be indicative of an underlying health issue.

D. Travel history: The client's recent travel to South Africa and the presence of respiratory symptoms raises concerns about possible exposure to infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, which is more prevalent in certain regions. Further evaluation of the travel history is essential.

E. Sputum characteristics: The client's report of "blood-tinged sputum" is concerning and should be evaluated further to rule out potential serious respiratory conditions.

F. Temperature: The presence of a "low-grade fever" should be further evaluated to assess the possible infectious etiology of the client's symptoms.

G. Heart Rate: The heart rate should be assessed further as an elevated heart rate could indicate an underlying systemic infection or other health issues.

The following client findings do not necessarily indicate the need for further evaluation in this context:

B. Report of cough: The client's report of a cough is the primary reason for their presentation to the emergency department and will, of course, be further evaluated as part of the assessment.

C. Blood pressure: Though monitoring blood pressure is essential, the information provided does not indicate any specific concerns regarding the client's blood pressure at this point.

A comprehensive assessment and further evaluation are necessary to determine the underlying cause of the client's symptoms. The nurse should collaborate with other healthcare professionals to conduct appropriate diagnostic tests and investigations to establish a diagnosis and provide appropriate care.