A nurse is preparing for an incoming storm. Which of the following clients should the nurse recommend for discharge planning?

A. A client has difficulty voiding following the removal of an indwelling catheter: Difficulty voiding can be a common, expected postoperative or post-catheterization occurrence. It requires nursing interventions but does not warrant an incident report unless it results in harm or an adverse outcome.

B. A client reports nausea following the administration of morphine: Nausea is a known and common side effect of opioid medications like morphine. Monitoring and providing antiemetics are appropriate, but this event is anticipated and does not require an incident report.

C. A client who has type 2 diabetes mellitus did not eat their breakfast: Missing a meal may affect blood glucose control but is not considered a reportable incident. Nursing actions would include monitoring glucose and providing alternatives, rather than filing an incident report.

D. A client's arm is edematous at the peripheral IV site: Edema at an IV site may indicate infiltration, phlebitis, or extravasation, which are complications of intravenous therapy. Because it is a preventable or unexpected adverse event, it must be documented in an incident report to inform quality improvement and patient safety measures.

A. “I can prevent constipation if I drink more milk while taking this medication.": Milk can actually decrease the absorption of iron and does not prevent constipation. Adequate hydration and dietary fiber are more effective strategies for managing iron-related constipation.

B. “I will mix the medication with a full glass of water.”: Ferrous sulfate elixir should be diluted in water or juice to improve taste, reduce gastrointestinal irritation, and enhance absorption. This statement reflects proper understanding of safe and effective administration.

C. “I will report black stools to my doctor": Black stools are a common, harmless side effect of iron supplementation and do not usually require reporting. Misunderstanding this can cause unnecessary concern if the client is aware that it is expected.

D. “I can prevent nausea if I take the medication on an empty stomach.”: Taking iron on an empty stomach may actually increase gastrointestinal irritation and nausea. It is often recommended to take iron with food if intolerance occurs, though absorption may be slightly reduced.