A nurse is teaching a client who is at 20 weeks of gestation about how to manage heartburn. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Answer: A

Rationale:

A. Frequent swallowing: Frequent swallowing in a postoperative tonsillectomy patient can be a sign of bleeding or a hemorrhage. This is a priority finding because it may indicate that the child is swallowing blood, which requires immediate intervention to prevent significant blood loss and complications.

B. Dark brown emesis: Dark brown emesis can be a normal finding post-tonsillectomy, as it may indicate the presence of old blood or clotted blood. While it should be monitored, it is not as urgent as frequent swallowing, which may signify active bleeding.

C. Sore throat: A sore throat is a common postoperative symptom following a tonsillectomy and is generally expected. It is important to manage pain and discomfort, but it is not as urgent as signs of potential bleeding.

D. Blood-tinged mucus: Blood-tinged mucus can occur after a tonsillectomy due to irritation or minor bleeding. While it should be observed, it is less critical compared to frequent swallowing, which may indicate more significant bleeding.

C. Obtain a client's vital signs every 4 hr:
This task can typically be delegated to assistive personnel (AP) who have been trained and deemed competent in measuring vital signs. Routine monitoring of vital signs, such as temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure, is within the scope of practice for AP and does not require the specialized skills of a licensed nurse.

D. Record a client's intake after each meal:
Assistive personnel can be delegated the task of recording a client's intake after each meal. This involves documenting the amount and type of food and fluids consumed by the client. While assessment of intake may involve some judgment, AP can be trained to perform this task accurately and consistently.

E. Transfer a client to physical therapy:
Assistive personnel can assist with transferring clients to physical therapy sessions. This may include tasks such as assisting clients into a wheelchair or onto a stretcher and accompanying them to the therapy area. While ensuring client safety during transfers is crucial, AP can perform these tasks under the direction and supervision of licensed nursing staff or physical therapists.

A. Instruct a client on the use of an incentive spirometer:
Teaching clients how to use medical equipment, such as an incentive spirometer, typically requires specialized knowledge and skills that fall within the scope of practice of licensed nursing staff. Therefore, this task should not be delegated to assistive personnel.

B. Insert an NG tube for a client who requires enteral feedings:
Inserting an NG tube is a specialized nursing skill that requires training, expertise, and an understanding of anatomy, proper technique, and potential complications. This task should only be performed by licensed nursing staff, such as registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs), who have received appropriate education and training.