A nurse is assessing a client who had a stroke 2 days ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a need for a referral to speech-language pathology?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because training LPNs to reinforce teaching with clients using a standardized teaching plan is a possible solution, but not the first step. The nurse manager should first identify the root cause of the problem before implementing any interventions.

Choice B reason: This is not the correct choice because including documentation of client education as part of unit nurses' annual performance evaluation is a way to monitor and evaluate the staff's performance, but not a way to improve it. The nurse manager should first address the barriers and challenges that prevent the staff from documenting client education effectively.

Choice C reason: This is the correct choice because determining factors that interfere with the documentation of client education is the first step in the quality improvement process. The nurse manager should use data analysis, staff feedback, and observation to find out the reasons for the low documentation results, such as lack of time, knowledge, skills, or resources.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct choice because offering incentives for the staff once the unit's results are back in adherence with the benchmark is a way to motivate and reward the staff, but not a way to solve the problem. The nurse manager should first implement evidence-based strategies to improve the documentation of client education, such as providing education, feedback, and tools.

Choice A reason: A client who has a raised red skin rash on his arms, neck, and face may have an allergic reaction or a skin infection, which are not life-threatening conditions. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of anaphylaxis or systemic infection, but this client is not the highest priority.

Choice B reason: A client who has active bleeding from a puncture wound of the left groin area is the highest priority because they are at risk of hemorrhage and shock. The nurse should apply direct pressure to the wound, elevate the affected leg, and monitor the client's vital signs and hemoglobin level.

Choice C reason: A client who reports shortness of breath and left neck and shoulder pain may have a cardiac or pulmonary problem, such as angina, myocardial infarction, or pulmonary embolism, which are serious conditions. The nurse should obtain an electrocardiogram, administer oxygen, and prepare for further diagnostic tests and interventions, but this client is not the highest priority.

Choice D reason: A client who reports right-sided flank pain and is diaphoretic may have a renal or urinary problem, such as kidney stones, pyelonephritis, or renal colic, which are painful but not life-threatening conditions. The nurse should administer analgesics, encourage fluid intake, and collect a urine sample, but this client is not the highest priority.