A nurse is planning care for a client who is receiving mechanical ventilation. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Choice A rationale:
Placing the client in a low Fowler's position with the knees bent (Choice A) can help reduce tension on the abdominal incision, but it is not the priority when evisceration is present. The focus should be on immediate intervention and preparation for surgery.
Choice B rationale:
Covering the client's wound with a sterile saline-soaked dressing (Choice B) is essential to prevent further contamination and maintain moisture in the exposed tissue. This step helps protect the wound until the client can be taken to the operating room.
Choice C rationale:
Notifying the surgeon about the finding (Choice C) is important, but it should not be done before taking more immediate action. Evisceration requires prompt intervention and transfer to surgery, and the surgeon will be involved once the client is ready for the operation.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing the client for transfer to surgery (Choice D) is the correct sequence of steps in this situation. Evisceration is a surgical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent complications and infection. The nurse should stabilize the wound with a sterile dressing and then prepare the client for surgery promptly.

Answer: D. The nurse refers a client who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for palliative care services:

Rationale:

A) The nurse files an incident report regarding a medication error:

Filing an incident report about a medication error is an important action for ensuring safety and quality improvement within the healthcare setting. However, it is primarily a procedural and administrative task rather than an act of direct advocacy for an individual client's needs or rights.

B) The nurse provides wound care to a client at the time promised to the client:

Providing wound care as promised demonstrates reliability and adherence to care plans, which is essential for trust and effective nursing practice. While this action shows respect for the client's needs and preferences, it does not specifically address the broader role of advocacy, which often involves intervening on behalf of the client's best interests in more complex situations.

C) The nurse declines to inform a client's neighbor about the client's prognosis:

Maintaining client confidentiality by not sharing private information with unauthorized individuals is a fundamental aspect of ethical nursing practice. This action protects the client's privacy but is more about upholding legal and ethical standards than actively advocating for the client's overall well-being or specific needs.

D) The nurse refers a client who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for palliative care services:

Referring a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to palliative care services exemplifies client advocacy. This action recognizes the client's need for comprehensive support, focusing on improving quality of life, managing symptoms, and providing holistic care. It involves proactive steps to address the client's complex health needs, ensuring they receive appropriate and compassionate care beyond standard medical treatment.