A nurse is using the faces, legs, activity, cry, consolability (FLACC) scale to assess the need for PRN pain medication for a client who has cognitive impairment. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication the client is experiencing pain?

The first client the nurse should assess is Client 3 (Pulmonary Edema) followed by Client 1 (Hip Fracture).

Rationale:

Client 3 (Pulmonary Edema) – Highest Priority:

1. 1. Pulmonary edema is a life-threatening condition that can impair oxygenation.
   2. The client has a history of congestive heart failure (CHF) and a chest x-ray confirming pulmonary edema.
   3. Immediate assessment is required to evaluate for respiratory distress, oxygenation status, and potential need for diuretics or oxygen therapy.

Client 1 (Hip Fracture) – Second Priority:

1. 1. The x-ray confirms a fractured femoral neck, which can cause severe pain, bleeding, and immobility.
   2. The nurse must assess for circulation, sensation, and movement (CSM) of the affected limb and manage pain.
   3. While this is urgent, it is not as immediately life-threatening as pulmonary edema.

Priority Order (Using ABCs & Maslow’s Hierarchy):

1. Client 3 – Pulmonary Edema (Airway/Breathing concern)
   2. Client 1 – Hip Fracture (Risk for bleeding, pain, mobility issues)
   3. Client 4 – Low Potassium (Risk for cardiac arrhythmias, needs electrolyte management)
   4. Client 6 – Poor Diabetes Control (HbA1c 9%, requires education & glucose monitoring)
   5. Client 5 – Malnutrition (Prealbumin 12 mg/dL, needs nutrition support for wound healing)
   6. Client 2 – Hyperlipidemia (Not an immediate concern, requires long-term management)

A. "Place the head of the bed flat before using the incentive spirometer." The client should be in a semi-Fowler’s or high-Fowler’s position (sitting upright) to maximize lung expansion.
B. "Hold your breath for 2 to 3 seconds when using the incentive spirometer." Holding the breath allows for maximum lung expansion and helps prevent atelectasis (lung collapse).
C. "Use the incentive spirometer every 3 hours while awake." The incentive spirometer should be used every 1 to 2 hours while awake to promote lung expansion and prevent complications such as pneumonia.
D. "Breathe in through your nose when using the incentive spirometer." The client should inhale deeply through the mouth, not the nose, to ensure proper lung inflation.