A nurse is preparing to remove an NG tube from a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A reason: Plan a plan of care for a client when postoperative from an appendectomy

Planning a plan of care for a client, especially postoperatively, is a complex task that requires comprehensive assessment and critical thinking skills. This responsibility typically falls within the scope of practice of a registered nurse (RN) rather than an LPN. The RN is trained to develop individualized care plans based on a thorough assessment of the client’s condition, medical history, and specific needs. This ensures that the care plan is holistic and addresses all aspects of the client’s recovery.

Choice B reason: Provide discharge instructions to a confused client’s spouse

Providing discharge instructions, particularly to a confused client’s spouse, involves detailed communication and education. This task is generally performed by an RN, who has the expertise to ensure that the instructions are clear, comprehensive, and tailored to the client’s specific needs. The RN can also assess the spouse’s understanding and provide additional clarification as needed. This ensures that the client receives appropriate care at home and reduces the risk of complications.

Choice C reason: Administer a tap-water enema to a client who is preoperative

Administering a tap-water enema is a task that can be safely delegated to an LPN. LPNs are trained to perform routine procedures such as enemas, which do not require the advanced assessment skills of an RN. This task involves following established protocols and ensuring the client’s comfort and safety during the procedure. By delegating this task to an LPN, the RN can focus on more complex aspects of client care.

Choice D reason: Clean vital signs from a client who is 6 hours postoperative

Obtaining and recording vital signs is a fundamental skill within the LPN’s scope of practice, as it involves routine data collection without interpretation or care‑planning decisions.

Choice E reason: Catheterize a client who has not voided in 8 hours

Catheterization is a procedure that LPNs are trained to perform. This task involves inserting a catheter to relieve urinary retention, which can be a common issue in postoperative clients. LPNs can perform this procedure safely and effectively, following established protocols to minimize the risk of infection and ensure the client’s comfort. Delegating this task to an LPN allows the RN to focus on other critical aspects of client care.

Choice A reason:

Wiping from back to front is incorrect and can lead to contamination of the urine sample with bacteria from the anal area. The correct method is to wipe from front to back to reduce the risk of contamination.

Choice B reason:

Urinating a small amount in the toilet before collecting the sample is the correct procedure for obtaining a midstream urine specimen. This helps to flush out any bacteria or contaminants from the urethra, ensuring that the sample collected is as clean as possible.

Choice C reason:

Letting the urine cool to room temperature before sending it to the lab is incorrect. Urine samples should be sent to the lab as soon as possible after collection to ensure accurate results. If there is a delay, the sample should be refrigerated.

Choice D reason:

It is generally recommended to avoid collecting a urine sample during menstruation, as menstrual blood can contaminate the sample and affect the test results.