A nurse is caring for a client who is 1 hr postpartum and unable to urinate.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Distributive justice refers to the fair distribution of resources, benefits, and burdens in society. Ensuring that a homeless client receives preventive medical care exemplifies distributive justice as it promotes equal access to healthcare resources for all individuals, regardless of their housing situation.

Choice B rationale:

Being honest with the parents of a child about the need to report suspected abuse is an example of veracity, which is the duty to tell the truth. While honesty is important, it does not directly relate to distributive justice.

Choice C rationale:

Accepting the decision of an older adult client to live alone in her home respects the client's autonomy and independence but does not specifically demonstrate distributive justice.

Choice D rationale:

Keeping a promise to visit with a housebound client is an example of fidelity, the duty to fulfill promises. While it is ethically important, it does not exemplify distributive justice, which pertains to fair resource allocation.

The correct answer is choice C: Initiate continuous cardiac monitoring.

Choice A rationale:

Implementing fluid restrictions is not recommended for a child with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is characterized by severe dehydration due to osmotic diuresis, and fluid replacement is a critical component of treatment to restore hydration and circulatory volume.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring vital signs every 8 hours is not sufficient for a child with DKA. DKA is an acute, life-threatening condition that requires close monitoring of vital signs to detect changes in the patient’s condition promptly. Vital signs should be monitored more frequently, typically every 1 to 2 hours, depending on the severity of the DKA and institutional protocols.

Choice C rationale:

Continuous cardiac monitoring is recommended for a child with DKA. DKA can lead to serious electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias. Continuous cardiac monitoring allows for the early detection and treatment of these potential complications.

Choice D rationale:

Administering subcutaneous insulin 30 minutes before meals is not appropriate for the acute management of DKA. In DKA, insulin is typically administered intravenously to rapidly decrease blood glucose levels and correct metabolic acidosis. Subcutaneous insulin is not used until the patient is stable and able to eat.