A nurse is assessing a patient’s ability to use a walking cane.
Which of the following observations would indicate that the patient is using the cane correctly?

Choice A rationale: Initiating a cardiac enzyme panel can help determine if the client has had a heart attack. However, this is not the immediate priority. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cardiac event, which needs to be addressed first. An ECG can provide immediate information, while a cardiac enzyme panel takes longer to return results.

Choice B rationale: Starting intravenous fluid therapy may be necessary depending on the client’s hydration status and overall condition. However, it is not the immediate priority. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cardiac event, which needs to be addressed first.

Choice C rationale: Providing pain relief medication may be necessary if the client is in pain. However, the client’s primary complaint is chest tightness and difficulty breathing, not pain. Therefore, addressing the potential cardiac issue is the priority.

Choice D rationale: The client’s symptoms of sudden shortness of breath, chest tightness, and anxiety, along with her history of hypertension and diabetes, are concerning for a possible cardiac event. An electrocardiogram (ECG) can provide immediate information about the heart’s electrical activity and help identify if the client is experiencing a heart attack or other cardiac event. This should be the first action taken to quickly identify the cause of the client’s symptoms and initiate appropriate treatment.

Choice E rationale: Performing a comprehensive physical assessment is an important part of nursing care. However, in this situation, the client’s symptoms indicate a need for immediate intervention to address her potential cardiac issue.

Choice F rationale: Monitoring the client’s blood glucose levels is important given her history of diabetes. However, this is not the immediate priority. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cardiac event, which needs to be addressed first.

Choice A rationale

Discussing the risk factors for colon cancer may not be helpful or comforting to a client who is expressing anger about their diagnosis. It might lead to feelings of guilt or regret if the client feels they could have done something to prevent the disease.

Choice B rationale

Focusing on future management of the illness may be overwhelming for a client who is currently expressing anger about their diagnosis. It might be more beneficial to address the client’s current emotional state before discussing future plans.

Choice C rationale

Providing written information about the phases of loss and grief may be helpful, but it may not address the client’s immediate emotional needs. The client may not be ready to read and process this information while they are expressing anger.

Choice D rationale

Reassuring the client that anger is an expected response to grief can validate the client’s feelings and help them feel understood. It’s important to acknowledge and validate the client’s emotions during this difficult time.