A nurse is obtaining a client’s manual blood pressure and is having difficulty auscultating sounds.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason:

Measuring the arm circumference above the insertion site daily is appropriate. When planning care for a client scheduled to receive a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) in the arm, it is appropriate for the nurse to include measuring the arm circumference above the insertion site daily. This intervention is essential to monitor for any signs of complications, such as edema or swelling, which could indicate thrombosis or infiltration at the insertion site.

Choice B reason:

Administering sedation Administering sedation is not a routine intervention for a PICC insertion procedure is inappropriate. Sedation might be considered for certain procedures, but it is not typically used for PICC insertions. PICC insertions are generally performed with local anaesthesia at the insertion site.

Choice C reason:

Scheduling an MRI post procedure to verify placement An MRI is not typically used to verify the placement of a PICC. The placement of a PICC is usually confirmed using X-ray or other imaging methods that can visualize the catheter's location within the central veins. Post-procedure verification of PICC placement is essential to ensure proper positioning and to prevent complications.

Choice D reason:

Using gauze to secure an arm board to the involved extremity Using gauze to secure an arm board to the involved extremity is not a common practice for securing a PICC. After a PICC insertion, a securement device specifically designed for PICCs is typically used to secure the catheter in place and prevent movement.

The correct answer is choice C. Perform a sterile dressing change for a client who has an abdominal wound. This is because a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can perform tasks that require technical skills and have predictable outcomes, such as dressing changes. A sterile dressing change is also within the scope of practice of an LPN.

Choice A is wrong because complete discharge teaching for a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus requires assessment, evaluation and critical thinking, which are beyond the scope of practice of an LPN. Discharge teaching is the responsibility of a registered nurse (RN) who can provide education and counseling to clients and families.

Choice B is wrong because completing the Glasgow Coma Scale for a client who has an evolving stroke requires assessment and interpretation of neurological status, which are complex and unpredictable tasks that only an RN can perform. The Glasgow Coma Scale is a tool that measures the level of consciousness of a client based on eye opening, verbal response and motor response. A client who has an evolving stroke may have changes in their neurological status that require frequent monitoring and intervention by an RN.

Choice D is wrong because performing an admission assessment for a client who is scheduled for surgery requires comprehensive data collection, analysis and synthesis, which are advanced skills that only an RN can perform. An admission assessment involves obtaining a complete health history, performing a physical examination, identifying client needs and problems, and developing a plan of care.

A client who is scheduled for surgery may have complex and unpredictable needs that require specialized knowledge and judgment by an RN.