A nurse is developing a discharge plan for a client who is postoperative and will require a wheelchair in the home. The nurse should place a referral to which of the following resources to assist the client with this need?

The correct answer is choice B.

Choice A rationale:

The client does not have transportation for discharge home. Rationale: While transportation is important for discharge planning, it is not the priority concern in this situation. The client's immediate needs and well-being take precedence over transportation concerns.

Choice B rationale:

The client refuses to attend physical therapy sessions. Rationale: The correct choice. After a hip surgery, physical therapy is crucial for preventing complications, promoting mobility, and ensuring optimal recovery. The refusal to attend these sessions could lead to delayed healing, increased risk of complications, and impaired functional outcomes. Addressing the client's resistance to therapy is a priority to ensure the best possible recovery.

Choice C rationale:

The client's home health nurse has not completed the home assessment. Rationale: While a home assessment is important for discharge planning, it is not the most immediate concern. The client's refusal to attend physical therapy could have more immediate and significant effects on their recovery and well-being.

Choice D rationale:

The client describes feelings of depression after family visits. Rationale: While addressing the client's emotional well-being is important, it is not the priority concern in this situation. The refusal to attend physical therapy sessions could have physical consequences that take precedence over the emotional aspect.

Choice A rationale:

Digoxin is a medication used to treat heart conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation. A digoxin level of 1.0 ng/mL is within the therapeutic range (usually 0.5-2.0 ng/mL), indicating that the client's digoxin dosage is appropriate. However, this value doesn't indicate an urgent need for a home visit.

Choice B rationale:

A white blood cell count (WBC) of 6,000/mm³ falls within the normal range (typically 4,500-11,000/mm³). While this value could suggest a stable immune system, it doesn't provide information requiring immediate attention or a home visit.

Choice C rationale:

Platelets are essential for blood clotting. A platelet count of 100,000/mm³ is significantly below the normal range (usually 150,000-450,000/mm³), indicating a risk of bleeding and potentially a serious medical condition. This client is at risk for spontaneous bleeding and requires prompt assessment and intervention, making this choice the correct answer.

Choice D rationale:

A serum potassium level of 4.0 mEq/L falls within the normal range (typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). While maintaining electrolyte balance is important, this potassium level doesn't indicate an immediate need for a home visit.