A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for oxygen at 7 L/min via a simple face mask. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure client safety?

The correct answer is choice B: "Please don't tell my doctor, but I am taking my partner's oxycodone."

Choice B rationale:

This statement presents an ethical dilemma as it reveals the client's engagement in potentially harmful and illegal behavior – taking a controlled substance prescribed for someone else. The nurse must balance the duty to respect the client's confidentiality with the responsibility to address potential harm to the client and others involved.

Choice A rationale:

"I might file a lawsuit because of how my surgery went" does not present an ethical dilemma, but rather a legal concern. While the nurse should listen to the client's complaints and provide appropriate support, this statement is more related to the client's dissatisfaction with their medical care.

Choice C rationale:

"Please don't get me out of bed this morning, It hurts too much" reflects a client's pain management request. While pain management is important, this statement doesn't raise an ethical dilemma on its own. It's within the scope of care to address pain and comfort concerns.

Choice D rationale:

"I don't want to take my medicine. It makes me sick to my stomach" highlights a client's concern about medication side effects. While addressing medication concerns is essential, this statement doesn't inherently pose an ethical dilemma.

The correct answer is choice a. "It must be difficult facing this type of surgery.”

Choice A rationale: This statement acknowledges the client’s feelings and provides emotional support, which is crucial in reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of understanding and empathy.

Choice B rationale: While this statement aims to reassure the client, it may come off as dismissive of the client’s unique concerns and feelings, potentially making them feel invalidated.

Choice C rationale: Although this statement highlights the facility’s reputation, it does not directly address the client’s immediate emotional needs or concerns about the surgery.

Choice D rationale: Offering a sleeping pill addresses the symptom (inability to sleep) but does not address the underlying anxiety or emotional distress the client is experiencing. Emotional support is often more effective in such situations.