A nurse is evaluating an 8-month-old infant's pain level following the administration of hydrocodone. Which of the following pain scales would the nurse use?

A) "Turn on overhead lights briefly when checking IV line.": Turning on overhead lights can disrupt the client’s sleep, especially if done during the night. Light exposure can interfere with the body’s natural circadian rhythm, making it harder for the client to fall asleep and stay asleep. A more appropriate action would be to use a dim light or portable light to minimize disturbance.

B) "Open curtains between clients’ semiprivate rooms.": Opening the curtains between semiprivate rooms could increase noise and visual distractions, which may disturb the client's sleep. Keeping the environment as calm and private as possible is essential to reduce stress and promote restful sleep. Curtains should ideally remain closed to promote privacy and minimize distractions.

C) "Conduct change-of-shift report near the clients’ rooms.": Conducting report near the client's rooms can create unnecessary noise and disturb the client’s sleep. The change-of-shift report should ideally take place in a designated area, away from patient rooms, to reduce noise and disturbances in the environment.

D) "Wear shoes with rubber soles.": Wearing shoes with rubber soles reduces noise when walking, which is particularly important in an acute care setting where patients need rest. Quiet movement helps to maintain a peaceful environment, reducing the environmental stressors that can impact sleep quality for clients.

A) "I will get you information about some head-covering options."
This response acknowledges the client's concern about hair loss and provides a supportive and proactive solution. Many chemotherapy clients experience hair loss, and offering resources for head coverings shows empathy while helping them cope with the anticipated changes in appearance. It demonstrates the nurse's willingness to assist the client with emotional and physical challenges related to treatment.

B) "Let’s discuss this when we have more time."
Delaying the discussion about hair loss is not ideal. It dismisses the client’s current concern and may make the client feel like their feelings are not a priority. Hair loss can be a significant emotional challenge, and the nurse should address it in a timely and compassionate manner rather than postponing the conversation.

C) "I can’t imagine how difficult it would be to lose my hair."
While this response is empathetic, it focuses on the nurse's feelings instead of addressing the client's concern. It is important to maintain a client-centered approach and focus on the client's needs. The nurse should offer concrete support or information, such as head-covering options, rather than expressing personal emotions that may not be helpful to the client.

D) "I wouldn’t worry about this right now. Let's focus on your chemotherapy."
This response dismisses the client's concern about hair loss, which can be a significant issue for many clients starting chemotherapy. Minimizing the concern or suggesting it is not worth discussing at this time may make the client feel unheard or undervalued. It’s important to acknowledge the client’s worries and provide support for them to manage the emotional impacts of chemotherapy.