A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted for an exacerbation of their COPD. The client will be discharged with a new prescription for oxygen therapy and will need assistance with activities of daily living. Which of the following referrals should the nurse obtain for the client?

The first client the nurse should assess is Client 3 (Pulmonary Edema) followed by Client 1 (Hip Fracture).

Rationale:

Client 3 (Pulmonary Edema) – Highest Priority:

1. 1. Pulmonary edema is a life-threatening condition that can impair oxygenation.
   2. The client has a history of congestive heart failure (CHF) and a chest x-ray confirming pulmonary edema.
   3. Immediate assessment is required to evaluate for respiratory distress, oxygenation status, and potential need for diuretics or oxygen therapy.

Client 1 (Hip Fracture) – Second Priority:

1. 1. The x-ray confirms a fractured femoral neck, which can cause severe pain, bleeding, and immobility.
   2. The nurse must assess for circulation, sensation, and movement (CSM) of the affected limb and manage pain.
   3. While this is urgent, it is not as immediately life-threatening as pulmonary edema.

Priority Order (Using ABCs & Maslow’s Hierarchy):

1. Client 3 – Pulmonary Edema (Airway/Breathing concern)
   2. Client 1 – Hip Fracture (Risk for bleeding, pain, mobility issues)
   3. Client 4 – Low Potassium (Risk for cardiac arrhythmias, needs electrolyte management)
   4. Client 6 – Poor Diabetes Control (HbA1c 9%, requires education & glucose monitoring)
   5. Client 5 – Malnutrition (Prealbumin 12 mg/dL, needs nutrition support for wound healing)
   6. Client 2 – Hyperlipidemia (Not an immediate concern, requires long-term management)

A. "An AP may monitor the peripheral IV insertion site of a client who is receiving replacement fluids." –
Monitoring IV sites requires assessment skills and clinical judgment, which are within the scope of a licensed nurse, not assistive personnel.
B. "An AP may count the respirations of a client who is going to have surgery later the same day." –
Counting respirations is a basic task within the AP’s scope of practice. However, the nurse is responsible for interpreting the findings.
C. "An AP may take orthostatic blood pressure measurements from a client who reports dizziness." –
Measuring orthostatic blood pressure requires critical thinking and assessment of the client’s condition, which falls under the nurse’s responsibilities.
D. "An AP may perform a central line dressing change for a client who is ready for discharge." –
Performing a central line dressing change is a sterile procedure that requires nursing assessment and should be completed by a licensed nurse.