A nurse is preparing to replace a nearly empty container of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for a patient. There has been a delay in receiving the new TPN solution from the pharmacy.
Which of the following solutions should the nurse infuse until the next TPN solution is available?

Choice A rationale

Establishing a patient relationship is important, but it’s not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse must first ensure safety for all involved.

Choice B rationale

Exploring the truth of the patient’s statements is a part of the therapeutic process, but it’s not the first step. The immediate concern should be to ensure safety.

Choice C rationale

Setting behavioral limits for the patient is the first action the nurse should take. This is crucial in managing a patient who has shown aggressive behavior. It helps to establish boundaries and expectations, which can prevent further aggressive incidents.

Choice D rationale

While it’s important to explain to the patient that the behavior was unacceptable, this is not the first action. The immediate priority is to ensure safety by setting behavioral limits.

Choice A rationale

The nurse should respect the patient’s need for space while also expressing willingness to talk when the patient is ready.

Choice B rationale

Telling the patient “Everything will be okay” may seem dismissive of the patient’s feelings and may not be helpful in this situation.

Choice C rationale

Asking “Do you feel like crying helps?” might come across as judgmental or dismissive.

Choice D rationale

Asking “Would you like to be alone?” might make the patient feel isolated or abandoned.