A nurse is caring for a client in the medical-surgical unit.

Exhibits

Which of the following actions should the nurse take to decrease the risks for urinary tract infection for this client?
Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale:

Transferring a client to physical therapy is a task that can be safely delegated to an assistive personnel (AP) as long as the client does not have any specific medical restrictions or requires specialized assistance during the transfer. APs are trained to assist with activities of daily living, including transferring clients from one place to another. However, it is essential for the nurse to assess the client's condition and provide clear instructions to the AP to ensure a safe transfer.

Choice B rationale:

Obtaining a client's vital signs every 4 hours is a routine task that can be delegated to an assistive personnel. APs are trained to measure vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers. Regular monitoring of vital signs is crucial in assessing the client's overall health status and detecting any changes that might require immediate medical attention.

Choice E rationale:

Recording a client's intake after each meal is a task that can be delegated to an assistive personnel. APs can document the amount and type of food and fluids consumed by the client. Monitoring the client's intake is important, especially if the client has specific dietary restrictions, allergies, or medical conditions that require close monitoring of their food and fluid intake.

Choice C rationale:

Instructing a client on the use of an incentive spirometer requires specialized knowledge and assessment of the client's respiratory status. This task should be performed by a licensed healthcare provider, such as a nurse or respiratory therapist, who can properly assess the client's lung function, demonstrate the correct technique, and ensure the client's safety during the process. Delegating this task to an AP could result in improper use of the spirometer, potentially leading to complications or ineffective therapy.

Choice D rationale:

Inserting an NG tube for a client who requires enteral feedings is a complex medical procedure that should be performed by a licensed nurse or healthcare provider with appropriate training and expertise. This procedure carries risks, including the risk of aspiration if not done correctly. Delegating this task to an AP is outside their scope of practice and could jeopardize the client's safety.

• A. Incorrect. While it's important to maintain social interaction with the client, avoiding excessive conversation during feeding is recommended. Distractions can interfere with the client's ability to focus on swallowing and increase the risk of aspiration.

• B. Incorrect.Coughing is a natural reflex that helps to clear the airway of any material that may have been aspirated. Discouraging coughing could potentially lead to a more serious problem.

• C. Correct.Sitting at or below the client's eye level provides a clearer view of the food and helps the client maintain control over their swallowing. This can reduce the risk of aspiration.

• D. Incorrect.Lifting the chin can actually increase the risk of aspiration by narrowing the opening to the trachea (windpipe). It's generally recommended to avoid lifting the chin during swallowing.