A nurse is teaching a client about using transdermal scopolamine to treat motion sickness.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Based on the information provided, the following findings require immediate follow-up:

A. Witnessing their family's death: The client witnessing their family's death during the tornado is a traumatic event that may have significant psychological implications. This finding requires immediate attention and further assessment to address the client's emotional well-being.

B. Caregiver reporting client acting differently than usual: The caregiver's concern about the client "not being themselves lately" is important and may indicate changes in the client's behavior or mental state. This requires immediate follow-up to explore the reasons behind the change in behavior.

D. Startles easily during thunderstorm: The client's heightened startle response during thunderstorms may be indicative of increased anxiety or trauma-related symptoms. This finding requires further evaluation and intervention.

G. Smoking marijuana to clear their mind: The client's use of marijuana to cope with their emotions and thoughts indicates maladaptive coping mechanisms. This finding requires immediate follow-up to address substance use and provide appropriate support.

H. Client experiences nightmares: The client's nightmares are likely related to the traumatic event they witnessed, and they may be experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This finding requires immediate attention and assessment to provide appropriate mental health support.

The other findings mentioned (C, E, F) are not concerning based on the information provided and do not require immediate follow-up. However, they may still be relevant for the client's overall assessment and care plan. The nurse should prioritize addressing the immediate mental health and emotional needs of the client, given the recent traumatic experience they went through.

Choice A rationale:

Changing the inner cannula on a tracheostomy is within the legal scope of practice for registered nurses. Nurses are trained to perform tracheostomy care, including changing the inner cannula. This procedure is within the nursing scope of practice and does not require a physician's intervention.

Choice B rationale:

Inserting a tunneled central venous catheter (such as a Hickman line) is a specialized procedure that generally falls under the scope of practice for advanced practice nurses (such as nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists) or physicians. RNs typically do not have the required training or authority to perform this invasive procedure.

Choice C rationale:

Irrigation of an external ear canal is within the legal scope of practice for registered nurses. Ear irrigation is a common nursing procedure used to remove impacted cerumen (earwax) and foreign bodies from the ear canal. Nurses are trained to perform this procedure safely and effectively.

Choice D rationale:

Administering blood products, including platelet transfusions, is within the legal scope of practice for an RN. RNs are responsible for preparing, verifying, and administering blood products according to institutional policies and procedures. This includes monitoring the patient during and after the transfusion for any adverse reactions.