A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client who reports vomiting and diarrhea for 2 days.
Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?

The correct answer is choice B: Explain to the client that they cannot leave until the surgeon discharges them.

Choice B rationale: The nurse should explain the importance of following the surgeon's orders and the potential consequences of leaving before being officially discharged. This approach provides patient education and promotes collaboration between the client and the health care team. It also ensures the client understands that leaving without proper discharge could lead to complications or inadequate recovery.

Choice A rationale: Threatening the client with restraints is not an appropriate action, as it may cause undue stress and escalate the situation. Restraints should only be used as a last resort in cases where the client poses an immediate risk of harm to themselves or others.

Choice C rationale: While having the client sign an against medical advice (AMA) form might be appropriate if the client insists on leaving, the nurse should first attempt to educate the client on the importance of following the surgeon's orders and collaborate with the client to resolve any concerns or issues leading to their desire to leave.

Choice D rationale: Administering a sedative medication is not an appropriate action in this situation. Sedation should only be used when medically necessary and not as a means to control a client's behavior or decisions.

Aspiration is when food or liquid enters the airway and causes choking or infection. Speech therapists can teach clients exercises to strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing, as well as strategies to prevent aspiration, such as changing the position of the head or the texture of the food.

Choice B is wrong because respiratory therapists help clients with breathing problems, not swallowing problems.

They may provide oxygen therapy, chest physiotherapy, or mechanical ventilation.

Choice C is wrong because physical therapists help clients with mobility problems, not swallowing problems.

They may provide exercises, massage, or assistive devices to improve movement and function.

Choice D is wrong because occupational therapists help clients with daily living activities, not swallowing problems.

They may provide training, adaptive equipment, or environmental modifications to enhance independence and quality of life.

Dysphagia is a medical term for swallowing difficulties.

It can be caused by various conditions that affect the nerves or muscles involved in swallowing, such as stroke, head injury, Parkinson’s disease, or esophageal cancer.

Dysphagia can lead to complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, or aspiration pneumonia.