A nurse is assisting with preoperative teaching for a client. Which of the following outcomes should the nurse expect?

Answer: A. An adolescent who asks to stay in the hospital because he likes the room

Rationale:

A) An adolescent who asks to stay in the hospital because he likes the room: This finding may indicate that the adolescent is experiencing abuse or neglect at home. A desire to remain in the hospital could suggest that the child views it as a safe space compared to their home environment, warranting further assessment for possible abuse.

B) A toddler who has multiple bruises on the shins of both legs and his parents report that he is clumsy: Bruising on the shins is common in toddlers due to normal exploratory behavior and frequent falls. The parent's explanation aligns with developmental norms, making this finding less indicative of abuse.

C) A school-age child who cries when the nurse is giving him an injection: Crying during injections is a typical reaction for school-age children and does not suggest abuse. Emotional responses to medical procedures are age-appropriate and expected.

D) A preschooler who has a BMI indicating obesity: While obesity in children may raise concerns about diet and lifestyle, it is not inherently indicative of abuse. Further evaluation may be needed for nutritional and health interventions but does not typically suggest maltreatment.

A. Helping the client into the shower: This task can be safely delegated to an assistive personnel (AP). The AP can help the client with activities of daily living such as showering, as long as the client is stable and does not require close monitoring.

B. Ambulating the client in the hallway: This task can also be delegated to an AP. Assisting with ambulation is within the scope of practice for an AP, provided the client is stable and there are no specific concerns that require a nurse’s assessment.

C. Measuring vital signs: While measuring vital signs is a critical task, it can be delegated to an AP. The AP can be trained to accurately measure and report vital signs. However, the nurse should review and interpret the results.

D. Removing the sternal dressing: This is the correct answer. Removing a sternal dressing after cardiac surgery is a complex task that requires a nurse’s expertise2. The nurse needs to assess the surgical site for signs of infection or complications, which is beyond the scope of practice for an AP. Therefore, this task should not be delegated and should be performed by the nurse herself