A nurse is caring for a 54-year-old male client in the oncology unit who is undergoing chemotherapy for colorectal cancer. The nurse must evaluate the client’s condition based on provided exhibits to determine which assessments indicate an improvement in the client’s condition.

Exhibits

Which of the following assessments indicates an improvement in the client’s condition?

Choice A rationale
Weighing a client with heart failure is a non-invasive and routine task that can be performed by an assistive personnel (AP). Accurate daily weights are essential for monitoring fluid balance in these clients.
Choice B rationale
Incorrect, as providing discharge instructions for a client requires professional nursing judgment and assessment, tasks outside the scope of practice for APs.
Choice C rationale
Incorrect, as performing an admission assessment requires critical thinking and clinical judgment, which are responsibilities of a licensed nurse.
Choice D rationale
Ambulating an older adult client with hypertension can be safely done by an AP. This helps in maintaining the client's mobility and preventing complications such as blood clots and muscle atrophy.
Choice E rationale
Incorrect, as checking a blood product with another nurse prior to administration involves a critical safety check that must be performed by licensed nurses to ensure the right blood is given to the right patient.

Choice A rationale
Joint pain in hands and knees is a common symptom of SLE due to inflammation but is not immediately life-threatening. It requires management but is not the highest priority.
Choice B rationale
A dry, raised rash on the face, such as a malar rash, is common in SLE and should be monitored and treated, but it is not immediately life-threatening.
Choice C rationale
Feelings of depression are serious and need addressing but are not an immediate threat to physical health. Depression is often associated with chronic illnesses and requires comprehensive mental health support.
Choice D rationale
Presence of peripheral edema could indicate renal involvement or cardiac issues in SLE, which can be life-threatening. It is crucial to address this finding urgently to prevent complications such as renal failure or severe cardiovascular events.