A nurse is planning care for a male client who is postoperative following a hernia repair. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan?

Choice A reason: Occasional mild nausea is common in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes and does not typically require reporting unless severe or persistent. It is not a concerning finding at 14 weeks, so this is incorrect for urgent reporting.
Choice B reason: Mild ankle swelling in the evening can be normal due to fluid retention but is not urgent unless accompanied by other preeclampsia signs. It is less critical than bleeding, so this is incorrect for priority reporting.
Choice C reason: Vaginal bleeding at 14 weeks is abnormal and may indicate miscarriage, placental issues, or other complications, requiring immediate reporting to the provider for evaluation. This finding is critical at 14 weeks gestation, aligning with obstetric emergency protocols, making it the correct choice for teaching.
Choice D reason: Increased appetite is normal in pregnancy as nutritional needs rise and does not warrant urgent reporting. It reflects healthy adaptation rather than a complication, so this is incorrect for inclusion in teaching about concerning findings.

Choice A reason: Instructing the client to shower and change clothes is inappropriate, as it may destroy forensic evidence critical for legal proceedings. Evidence preservation is a priority post-sexual assault, and showers are delayed until after forensic examination, making this intervention incorrect and potentially harmful.
Choice B reason: Asking for details about the assault can retraumatize the client and is not the nurse’s role immediately post-assault. Trained forensic examiners or counselors handle such discussions sensitively. This action risks emotional harm and is inappropriate for initial care, making it incorrect.
Choice C reason: Reassuring the client that injuries are not life-threatening may minimize their trauma and emotional distress. The focus should be on emotional support and safety, not downplaying injuries, which may be perceived insensitively. This intervention is inappropriate for trauma-informed care, making it incorrect.
Choice D reason: Limiting staff members providing care reduces the client’s exposure to multiple providers, minimizing retraumatization and ensuring consistency. This trauma-informed approach fosters trust and safety post-sexual assault, aligning with best practices for psychological support, making it the correct intervention.