A nurse is caring for a client with cognitive impairment.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take to enhance understanding?

Choice A rationale
A neurologist is a specialist in diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system, including strokes. Collaborating with a neurologist ensures that the client receives timely and accurate diagnostic tests and interventions. Neurologists have the expertise to interpret imaging studies, prescribe appropriate treatments, and manage complications related to strokes.
Choice B rationale
A chaplain provides spiritual support and counseling to patients and their families. While their role is important for emotional and spiritual well-being, they do not have the medical expertise needed to diagnose and treat strokes. Collaborating with a chaplain is beneficial for holistic care but not for ensuring timely diagnostic tests and interventions for a stroke.
Choice C rationale
A respiratory therapist specializes in assessing and treating respiratory conditions. While respiratory therapists play a crucial role in managing breathing difficulties, they are not the primary healthcare professionals for diagnosing and treating strokes. Their expertise is valuable for patients with respiratory issues but not for stroke-specific care.
Choice D rationale
A speech-language pathologist assesses and treats communication and swallowing disorders. They are essential for stroke rehabilitation, especially for patients with speech and swallowing difficulties. However, they are not involved in the initial diagnosis and acute management of strokes. Collaborating with a speech-language pathologist is important for rehabilitation but not for immediate diagnostic tests and interventions.

Choice A rationale
Ignoring the comment and documenting “No Known Allergies” (NKA) is incorrect because it disregards the client’s report of an allergy. This action could lead to potential harm if the client is indeed allergic to codeine.
Choice B rationale
Asking the client why they think it is an allergy is not the best response. It may come across as dismissive and does not provide the nurse with specific information about the client’s allergic reaction.
Choice C rationale
Telling the client not to worry and that they will be okay if they take codeine with food is incorrect. This response is dismissive of the client’s concern and does not address the potential for an allergic reaction.
Choice D rationale
Asking the client what symptoms they experience with codeine is the best response. It allows the nurse to gather specific information about the client’s allergic reaction, which is crucial for safe medication administration.