A nurse is assessing the skin turgor of an older adult client. In which of the following areas should the nurse lift the skin?

The correct answer is choice C. Perform a sterile dressing change for a client who has an abdominal wound. This is because a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can perform tasks that require technical skills and have predictable outcomes, such as dressing changes. A sterile dressing change is also within the scope of practice of an LPN.

Choice A is wrong because complete discharge teaching for a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus requires assessment, evaluation and critical thinking, which are beyond the scope of practice of an LPN. Discharge teaching is the responsibility of a registered nurse (RN) who can provide education and counseling to clients and families.

Choice B is wrong because completing the Glasgow Coma Scale for a client who has an evolving stroke requires assessment and interpretation of neurological status, which are complex and unpredictable tasks that only an RN can perform. The Glasgow Coma Scale is a tool that measures the level of consciousness of a client based on eye opening, verbal response and motor response. A client who has an evolving stroke may have changes in their neurological status that require frequent monitoring and intervention by an RN.

Choice D is wrong because performing an admission assessment for a client who is scheduled for surgery requires comprehensive data collection, analysis and synthesis, which are advanced skills that only an RN can perform. An admission assessment involves obtaining a complete health history, performing a physical examination, identifying client needs and problems, and developing a plan of care.

A client who is scheduled for surgery may have complex and unpredictable needs that require specialized knowledge and judgment by an RN.

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale:

• Acknowledges the client's feelings:It's important for the nurse to validate the client's concerns and let them know that it's understandable to feel nervous or uncertain about ECT.
• Provides information about the treatment:The nurse can offer information about the potential benefits of ECT,but it's important not to pressure the client or make them feel like they have to go through with it.
• Reassures the client of their right to change their mind:This is a crucial aspect of informed consent.The client has the right to withdraw their consent at any time,even after signing the consent form.

Choice B rationale:

• Places undue pressure on the client:This response implies that the doctor knows what's best for the client and that the client should go through with the treatment even if they have doubts.This can undermine the client's autonomy and decision-making ability.

Choice C rationale:

• May minimize the client's concerns:While rescheduling the treatment is an option,it's important to explore the client's concerns more thoroughly before suggesting this.It's possible that the client has valid reasons for not wanting to go through with ECT,and these reasons should be addressed.

Choice D rationale:

• Is disrespectful of the client's autonomy:This response suggests that the client is obligated to go through with the treatment simply because they signed a consent form.This ignores the fact that people can change their minds and that consent is an ongoing process.