A nurse is assessing a client who has a brain tumor and is receiving palliative care. Which of the following findings indicates the nurse should administer pain medication?

Choice A reason: Starting work in a parking garage while on warfarin does not inherently indicate a need for referral unless specific risks (e.g., injury prone to bleeding) are present. Without additional concerns, this situation is routine, making it incorrect for requiring further care.
Choice B reason: Increased urinary frequency with bumetanide, a diuretic, is an expected side effect, not requiring referral unless severe or accompanied by electrolyte imbalances. This is a normal response, so it does not warrant further care, making it incorrect.
Choice C reason: An induration 48 hours after a Mantoux test suggests a positive tuberculosis result, requiring referral for chest X-ray and further evaluation. This finding indicates potential latent or active TB, a significant health concern, making it the correct choice for referral.
Choice D reason: Being 1 day postoperative after knee replacement is expected, with routine monitoring for complications like infection or thrombosis. Without specific issues, this does not require referral beyond standard postoperative care, making it incorrect.

Choice A reason: Placing the client in semi-Fowler’s position for postoperative assessment is appropriate, promoting lung expansion and reducing aspiration risk. This aligns with standard care, supporting respiratory function and comfort, requiring no further instruction as it reflects safe, evidence-based practice.
Choice B reason: Auscultating lungs without lifting the gown may reduce clarity but is not unsafe. It preserves modesty and is acceptable if effective. While lifting the gown is preferred, this action poses minimal risk, requiring less instruction compared to errors with immediate safety implications.
Choice C reason: Administering an enema without checking for contraindications, like bowel obstruction, risks complications such as perforation. This reflects poor assessment, necessitating instruction to ensure the nurse verifies patient safety and chart details before invasive procedures to prevent harm.
Choice D reason: Checking vital signs before cardiac medication is correct, ensuring safety (e.g., withholding beta-blockers for low heart rate). This follows pharmacological protocols, requiring no instruction, as it demonstrates competence in safe medication administration practices on a medical-surgical unit.