A nurse is caring for a group of clients in a long-term care facility. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent healthcare-associated infections for these clients? (Select all that apply.)

The correct answer is choice A: "Complained about having incisional pain."

Choice A rationale:

Documenting a client's complaints about pain, especially incisional pain, is crucial in an electronic health record. Pain assessment and management are essential aspects of client care, and including this information helps to track the client's pain level, the effectiveness of pain interventions, and any changes in their condition over time.

Choice B rationale:

While it's important to monitor fluid intake and output, stating that the client "Voided adequate amounts through the shift" might be relevant to the client's overall condition but lacks specific information. It doesn't address the reason for the assessment, and the focus should be on the client's immediate care needs and responses.

Choice C rationale:

Noting that the client "Became short of breath when ambulating" is significant for documenting any potential signs of respiratory distress during activity. This information provides valuable insights into the client's ability to tolerate physical exertion and might indicate a need for further assessment or interventions.

Choice D rationale:

Documenting that the client "Appeared to be sleeping while in bed" might not offer significant clinical information unless there is a specific reason for noting the client's sleep patterns. Sleep is an important aspect of recovery, but this choice lacks the context needed to make it a priority entry in the documentation.

The correct answer is choice B. Client states, "I started to itch after taking that medication."

Choice A rationale:

"Client is itching from medication." This statement is not a comprehensive description of the situation and lacks specific information. It doesn't provide any context about when the itching occurred or the client's own observation.

Choice B rationale:

"Client states, 'I started to itch after taking that medication.'" This choice is the correct answer because it accurately documents the client's own statement about the itching and the timing in relation to taking the medication. It includes a direct quote, which helps in maintaining accurate and patient-centered documentation.

Choice C rationale:

"It appears that the client has a rash from the medication." This statement includes an assumption and subjective language ("It appears"), which can be misleading in documentation. It's essential to provide factual and objective information in medical records.

Choice D rationale:

"Rash from medication noted." This choice lacks detail and doesn't capture the client's perspective or the timing of the symptom. It's important to include the client's statement and the time frame in which the symptom occurred.