A nurse is completing an assessment of a recently widowed older adult client. They state that they are unable to drive and are afraid to cook on the stove. Which of the following community resources should the nurse recommend?

A. Teach workers to choose personal strategies to cope with work stress: While teaching coping strategies is beneficial for mental well-being, it does not directly address physical agents in the environment. This intervention focuses on psychological stressors rather than physical environmental factors.

B. Limit the amount of time workers spend in temperatures over 43.3° C (110° F): Implementing measures to limit exposure to high temperatures is a crucial intervention for reducing physical stressors in the workplace. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses, so this action protects employees’ health.

C. Provide ear plugs for use at workstations throughout the factory: Providing earplugs is an effective intervention for mitigating noise exposure, which is a physical agent that can cause hearing loss and other health issues. This measure helps create a safer work environment by protecting employees from harmful noise levels.

D. Obtain dosimeters for employees to wear when using new machinery that emits radiation: Providing dosimeters is essential for monitoring radiation exposure among employees. This intervention directly addresses physical agents in the workplace by ensuring that workers are protected from harmful radiation levels and that exposure remains within safe limits.

E. Require more frequent disinfection of work surfaces during influenza season: While this measure is important for preventing the spread of infectious diseases, it primarily addresses biological agents rather than physical agents in the environment. This intervention focuses on hygiene and infection control rather than mitigating physical environmental stressors.

A. Schedule the meeting to occur in the nursing station: Conducting the meeting in the nursing station may not provide the privacy and confidentiality needed for a sensitive discussion about performance issues. A private setting is essential to encourage open communication and a constructive dialogue.

B. Arrange seating to sit across from the nurse: Sitting across from the nurse can create a confrontational atmosphere. It is more effective to arrange seating in a way that fosters collaboration and openness, such as sitting beside the nurse, which can help reduce tension during the conversation.

C. Tell the nurse they need to improve their client care delivery: Directly stating that the nurse needs to improve without first exploring their perspective may be perceived as accusatory and could lead to defensiveness. A more supportive approach is necessary to promote constructive feedback and development.

D. Ask the nurse how things have been going since the last meeting: This action is the most appropriate as it opens the conversation in a non-confrontational manner, allowing the nurse to express their thoughts and experiences. It fosters a supportive environment and encourages the nurse to reflect on their performance and any challenges they may be facing, leading to a more productive appraisal.