A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 4 hr postoperative following abdominal surgery. The client's blood pressure is 90/60 mm Hg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A reason: The nurse should contact the provider to clarify the prescription because applying heat to an area with impaired sensation can cause burns or tissue damage. The nurse should also educate the client about the risks of using heat therapy and alternative methods to relieve pain.

Choice B reason: The Semmes Weinstein monofilament test is used to assess the sensation of light touch in clients with peripheral neuropathy. The nurse should perform this test before applying any intervention that could affect the skin integrity, such as heat, cold, or compression.

Choice C reason: Observing the skin 10 min after the start of treatment is not sufficient to prevent complications from heat therapy. The nurse should monitor the skin continuously and check for signs of redness, blisters, or burns.

Choice D reason: Applying the heating pad as prescribed by the provider is not appropriate for a client with diabetic neuropathy of the lower extremities. Heat can increase blood flow and inflammation in the affected area, which can worsen the condition and increase the risk of infection.

Choice A reason: Applying restraints to the client is not an appropriate action, as it can cause injury or suffocation to the client during a seizure. The nurse should protect the client from harm by removing any nearby objects and padding the side rails.

Choice B reason: Administering an IV bolus of lorazepam is an appropriate action, as lorazepam is an anticonvulsant drug that can stop or shorten the duration of a seizure by enhancing the inhibitory effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.

Choice C reason: Placing the client in the prone position is not an appropriate action, as it can obstruct the airway and cause respiratory distress or aspiration during a seizure. The nurse should place the client in the side-lying position to facilitate drainage of oral secretions and prevent tongue biting.

Choice D reason: Inserting a tongue blade into the client's mouth is not an appropriate action, as it can cause oral trauma or choking during a seizure. The nurse should never force anything into the client's mouth during a seizure and should allow them to breathe spontaneously.