A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving fluid replacement therapy following a postpartum hemorrhage. Which of the following findings Indicate the client's fluid balance has been restored?

Rationale:

A. Assign the AP to ask the client if she has taken her antidiabetic medication today: Asking about medication adherence is part of assessment and requires clinical judgment. Delegating this task to an AP is inappropriate because it involves interpreting client responses and making clinical decisions.

B. Determine if the AP has the skills to perform the test: Before delegating any task, the nurse must verify that the AP is competent and trained to perform the procedure safely. Ensuring skill competency protects the client from harm and aligns with the nurse’s responsibility for delegation.

C. Have the AP check the medical record for prior blood glucose test results: Reviewing medical records and interpreting trends involves clinical judgment and falls outside the typical scope of practice for an AP. This task should remain with the licensed nurse.

D. Help the AP perform the blood glucose test: Assisting the AP is not necessary if the AP is competent and has been properly trained. The nurse’s role is to delegate appropriately, supervise as needed, and ensure safe completion, rather than performing the task alongside the AP.

Rationale:

A. "You should not drink through a straw for 2 weeks.": Drinking through a straw can create pressure in the middle ear, which may dislodge the tympanic membrane graft or interfere with healing after a myringotomy. Avoiding straws is an important precaution to protect the surgical site and promote proper recovery.

B. "You should expect excessive ear drainage for about 48 hours": Some drainage may occur, but excessive drainage is not expected and could indicate infection or complications. Clients should be instructed to report any abnormal or persistent drainage to the provider rather than expecting it as normal.

C. "You can wash your hair 3 days after the procedure.": Hair washing is typically delayed until the provider confirms it is safe, usually after avoiding water in the ear for a few days. Premature washing could allow water to enter the middle ear, increasing the risk of infection.

D. "You should blow your nose with your mouth closed": Blowing the nose increases pressure in the middle ear and can compromise the healing of the tympanic membrane. Clients should be taught to avoid nose-blowing entirely or do so gently with the mouth open if necessary.