A nurse manager is discussing critical pathway use during a staff meeting. Which of the following information should the nurse manager include as an outcome of critical pathway use?

Choice A reason: This client does not need an interdisciplinary conference because their condition is not complex or chronic. The nurse can manage the client's care by monitoring their vital signs, fluid intake and output, and hydration status. The nurse can also educate the client on how to prevent orthostatic hypotension by changing positions slowly and wearing compression stockings.

Choice B reason: This client does not need an interdisciplinary conference because their condition is well-controlled and self-managed. The nurse can manage the client's care by checking their blood glucose levels, administering insulin as prescribed, and providing dietary and lifestyle education. The nurse can also collaborate with the diabetes educator or the endocrinologist if needed.

Choice C reason: Although this client is at risk for pressure ulcers, their albumin level is within the normal range, indicating adequate nutritional status. Low albumin levels are often associated with poor wound healing and increased risk of skin breakdown, but in this case, nutrition does not appear to be a concern. Preventive measures, such as regular repositioning, skin assessments, and pressure-relieving devices, can be implemented by nursing staff without requiring an interdisciplinary meeting.

Choice D reason:This client is the most appropriate candidate for an interdisciplinary conference. The activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is a critical lab value for monitoring heparin therapy, and a level of 34 seconds is below the therapeutic range. A subtherapeutic aPTT increases the risk of clot formation, indicating that the heparin dose may need to be adjusted. An interdisciplinary team, including the physician, pharmacist, nurse, and laboratory personnel, should collaborate to ensure safe and effective anticoagulation management. This conference would allow for a discussion on dosage adjustments, potential medication interactions, and continued monitoring to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

The correct answer is: B.

Choice A reason:

Suctioning a client's long-term tracheostomy is a complex procedure that involves sterile technique and assessment skills that are beyond the scope of assistive personnel's practice. It requires clinical judgment and the ability to respond to complications, which are responsibilities typically reserved for licensed nursing staff.

Choice B reason:

Using a pain rating scale to monitor a client's pain level is a task that can be delegated to assistive personnel. It involves asking the client to rate their pain on a scale, which does not require clinical judgment or advanced skills. The assistive personnel can then report the pain level to the nurse, who will make decisions regarding pain management.

Choice C reason:

Performing a dressing change on a client's peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is not within the scope of assistive personnel. This task requires aseptic technique and knowledge of PICC line management to prevent infection and other complications, which are typically the responsibility of the registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.

Choice D reason:

Instructing a client on self-administration of a tap water enema involves teaching and assessment to ensure the client understands and can perform the procedure safely. This is a task that requires licensed nursing knowledge and skills to educate the client and evaluate their competency.