A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is assessing a client who has had a stroke. For which of the following findings should the nurse initiate a referral for occupational therapy?

A is incorrect because the client should stand with their feet together, not 1 foot apart, for the Romberg test.

B is incorrect because the client should hold their arms at their sides, not on their hips, for the Romberg test.

C is incorrect because the nurse should stand close to the client, not across the room, to prevent injury in case of a fall.

D is correct because the Romberg test involves checking the client's balance with their eyes open and then with their eyes closed.

• A. Incorrect. Withholding pain medications for 24 hr after the old patch is removed is a harmful action that could cause severe withdrawal symptoms and uncontrolled pain for the client. The nurse should respect the client's right to refuse treatment and explore the reasons for their decision.
• B. Correct. Asking another nurse to witness the disposal of the new patch is a safe and legal action that follows the policies and procedures for handling controlled substances. The nurse should document the disposal of the new patch and report it to the appropriate authority.
• C. Incorrect. Sealing the patches in a plastic bag and placing them in the client's trash basket is an unsafe and illegal action that could lead to diversion, misuse, or accidental exposure of fentanyl to others. The nurse should dispose of the patches in a secure and designated container that prevents access by unauthorized persons.
• D. Incorrect. Sticking the two patches to each other and placing them in the sharps bin is an unsafe and improper action that could cause contamination, injury, or infection to others who handle or dispose of sharps waste. The nurse should dispose of the patches separately and carefully, avoiding contact with their adhesive surfaces.