A nurse is teaching a client who is perimenopausal and has recurrent lower back pain. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason: Discussing the visitation policy is important for the client’s overall hospital experience but does not directly relate to the prevention of postoperative complications. Visitation policies help manage the flow of visitors and ensure the client gets adequate rest, but they do not address specific postoperative risks.

Choice B reason: Instructing the client about the use of a sequential compression device is crucial for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism, which are common postoperative complications. Sequential compression devices (SCDs) help improve blood circulation in the legs, reducing the risk of blood clots forming during periods of immobility after surgery.

Choice C reason: Teaching the client how to use the PCA pump (patient-controlled analgesia) is important for pain management but does not directly prevent postoperative complications. Proper pain management can aid in recovery by allowing the client to move and breathe more effectively, but it is not a primary preventive measure for complications like DVT or infections.

Choice D reason: Reviewing the pain scale helps the client communicate their pain levels effectively, which is important for managing postoperative pain. However, like the PCA pump, it does not directly prevent complications. Effective pain management can contribute to overall recovery but is not a standalone preventive measure.

Choice A reason:

Providing a list of the client’s current medications during the change of shift report is important for continuity of care, but it is not the primary focus of medication reconciliation. Medication reconciliation aims to ensure accuracy of the medication list at key transition points, such as admission, transfer, and discharge.

Choice B reason:

Not performing reconciliation for a client at discharge from a health care facility is incorrect. Medication reconciliation is crucial at discharge to ensure that the patient leaves with an accurate and complete list of medications, which helps prevent medication errors and adverse drug events.

Choice C reason:

Providing a list of the client’s current medications during admission to a health care facility is a key component of medication reconciliation. This process involves comparing the patient’s current medications with the new medications ordered upon admission to identify and resolve any discrepancies. This helps ensure that the patient receives the correct medications throughout their stay.

Choice D reason:

Including only prescription medications in the medication reconciliation report is insufficient. The reconciliation process should include all medications the patient is taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies. This comprehensive approach helps identify potential interactions and ensures safe medication management.