A nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness and a family member asks why the client's mouth is continually open. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. Show the assistive personnel where to apply the medication: This action is not appropriate because only licensed healthcare providers, such as nurses, are allowed to administer
medications.
B. Ask the client when the previous nurse last applied the medication: While communication with the client is important, it is not a reliable method to verify medication administration accuracy.
C. Identify the client by comparing the medication administration record with the client's room number: This action is insufficient to verify the correct client because there could be multiple clients with the same medication due.
D. Compare the label of the medication container with the medication administration record three times: Correct. This action is known as the "three checks" and is an essential step in medication administration. The nurse should compare the medication label with the medication administration record before removing the medication, after removing the medication, and at the bedside before administering the medication.

A. Place the client's medication record on the bedside table while ambulating the client: This action does not relate to protecting the client's privacy. It might actually compromise confidentiality by leaving sensitive information exposed.

B. Give a report about the client's status while standing at the nurses' station: This action does not protect the client's privacy. Discussing sensitive information in a public area can lead to breaches of confidentiality.

C. Speak with the client about their condition after visitors have left: Correct. Protecting the client's privacy is essential, and discussing personal health information in private with the client respects their right to confidentiality.

D. Place a message board in the client's room to post dietary information: This action does not relate to protecting the client's privacy. Posting dietary information may be helpful for staff, but it doesn't address the client's privacy concerns.