A nurse is caring for a client who follows a kosher diet.
Which of the following menu items should the nurse include on the tray?

Choice A rationale:

Delaying the discussion about managing hair loss when the client has expressed concern is not the best approach. The nurse should provide information and support when the client seeks it.

Choice B rationale:

Discouraging the client from worrying about hair loss at this moment is not empathetic. The client's concerns should be acknowledged and addressed.

Choice C rationale:

Expressing empathy and relating to the client's emotional experience is a good practice, but it does not directly answer the client's question about managing hair loss.

Choice D rationale:

Offering to get information about head-covering options indicates an understanding of the client's concerns and provides a proactive solution. It shows empathy and willingness to support the client during chemotherapy, where hair loss can be a significant emotional issue.

The correct answers are C and D.

Choice A reason: Preferred bath time is a personal preference and comfort-related aspect of patient care. While it is important for overall patient satisfaction and care planning, it is not critical information for a change-of-shift report following a total knee arthroscopy. The focus in such reports is typically on clinical status, immediate care needs, and potential complications.

Choice B reason: Admission vital signs are the initial measurements taken upon the patient’s admission to the healthcare facility. These are baseline values that can be referenced later to note any significant changes. However, for a change-of-shift report, especially 2 days postoperative, the most current vital signs and any changes since surgery are more pertinent than the admission values.

Choice C reason: The time of the last pain medication is crucial information for a change-of-shift report. Pain management is a key aspect of postoperative care, particularly after procedures like total knee arthroscopy. Knowing when the last dose was administered helps the incoming nurse manage the patient’s pain effectively and anticipate when the next dose is due.

Choice D reason: The steps required for dressing change are essential to include in the change-of-shift report. Proper wound care and dressing changes are vital to prevent infection and ensure proper healing after surgery. Detailed instructions on the dressing change process help maintain consistency in care between different caregivers.