A nurse is caring for a client admitted for alcohol use disorder who reports using alcohol to deal with stress. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to assist the client in maintaining self-control of the behavior?

A. Instruct the client to flex the right knee every 30 min: After a femoral cardiac catheterization, the affected leg should remain straight to prevent bleeding or hematoma formation. Flexing the knee could disrupt hemostasis at the insertion site.

B. Assess the client's peripheral pulses every 15 min: Frequent monitoring of peripheral pulses ensures early detection of vascular complications such as thrombosis, occlusion, or impaired circulation in the affected limb.

C. Change the client's dressing 4 hr following the procedure: The initial dressing is typically left intact for several hours or until bleeding is controlled. Early dressing changes are unnecessary and may increase infection risk.

D. Elevate the head of the client's bed to 45°: Elevating the head of the bed can increase pressure on the femoral insertion site and risk bleeding. The client’s bed is usually kept flat or slightly elevated according to provider orders until hemostasis is confirmed.

Rationale:

A. Record information about the home visit according to agency policy: Documentation is performed at the end of the visit to ensure that all observations, interventions, and plans are accurately recorded in the client’s record for continuity of care.

B. Contact the family to determine availability and readiness to make an appointment: Before visiting, the nurse should coordinate with the family to schedule a convenient time, ensuring that they are prepared for the assessment and intervention process.

C. Discuss plans for future visits with the family: After assessing the client and identifying needs, the nurse should collaborate with the family to plan ongoing visits and care strategies that align with their goals and availability.

D. Clarify the reason for the referral with the provider's office: This is the first step to ensure the nurse understands the purpose of the referral, specific concerns, and any important background information before contacting the family.

E. Identify family needs and interventions using the nursing process: During the visit, the nurse collects data, assesses needs, and develops appropriate interventions, forming the foundation for the care plan moving forward.