A nurse is preparing a client's body for a postmortem family viewing.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Veracity refers to the principle of truthfulness and honesty in communication. By truthfully communicating about the adverse effects of the prescribed medications, the nurse is demonstrating veracity. This ethical principle emphasizes the importance of providing accurate information to the client to promote informed decision-making and autonomy.

Justice refers to fairness and equitable treatment, ensuring that individuals receive what they are due and that resources are distributed appropriately. While justice is an important ethical concept in healthcare, it is not directly applicable to the nurse's communication about adverse effects.

Autonomy refers to respecting the right of individuals to make their own decisions and choices regarding their healthcare. While truthfully communicating about adverse effects supports autonomy, autonomy itself is not the specific ethical concept being exhibited in this scenario. Beneficence refers to the ethical principle of acting in the best interest of the client and promoting their well-being. While providing accurate information about adverse effects can be seen as a form of beneficence, it does not directly address the nurse's truthful communication in this specific scenario.

When prioritizing care, the nurse should consider the urgency and potential complications associated with each client's condition. Based on the given information, the nurse should plan to see the client who has a femur fracture and reports numbness of the toes first.

The client with a femur fracture and numbness of the toes is experiencing a potential neurovascular compromise. Numbness can indicate impaired circulation or nerve damage, which requires immediate assessment and intervention to prevent further complications.

The other clients also require attention, but their conditions are not as urgent as a potential neurovascular compromise. Here's a brief explanation of the other options:

Option A, A client who has cirrhosis and severe pruritus is incorrect: Pruritus (severe itching) can be distressing for the client, but it is not an immediate life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention.

Option B, A client who had a laparoscopic appendectomy 8 hr ago and is awaiting discharge is incorrect: This client has already undergone surgery and is in the postoperative period. While they may require routine assessments and care, they are stable and can wait for the nurse's attention.

Option D A client who had a renal biopsy 3 hr ago and has pink-tinged urine is incorrect: Pink-tinged urine following a renal biopsy can be expected due to blood in the urine. While the nurse should monitor the client's condition closely, it is not an immediate concern unless there is excessive bleeding or signs of complications.