A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is planning care for four clients. Which of the following tasks should the nurse delegate to an assistive personnel (AP)?

Choice A rationale:

Before initiating teaching for a client with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus, it is essential to identify the client's learning needs. This involves assessing what the client already knows about the condition, their level of understanding, and any specific areas of concern or interest. By establishing the learning needs, the nurse can tailor the teaching plan to address the client's individual requirements, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the education provided.

Choice B rationale:

While determining the client's literacy level (Choice B) is important, it might not take precedence over understanding the client's learning needs. However, assessing literacy is still relevant because it helps the nurse adapt the teaching materials and language used to ensure the client comprehends the information.

Choice C rationale:

Evaluating the client's readiness for learning (Choice C) is significant, but it should ideally follow the identification of learning needs. Readiness for learning pertains to the client's emotional and psychological state, which can impact their ability to absorb new information. While essential, it should not be the initial step in planning teaching.

Choice D rationale:

Verifying the client's computer access (Choice D) is not directly related to the immediate planning of teaching for a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. While technology and access to online resources can enhance learning, this consideration is secondary to understanding the client's knowledge gaps and preferred learning style.

Choice E rationale:

Identifying the client's learning style (Choice E) is valuable in customizing the teaching approach, but it comes after establishing learning needs. Learning styles, such as visual, auditory, or kinesthetic, can influence the most effective way to present information. However, without first determining what the client needs to know, tailoring the teaching style might not yield optimal results.

Choice A rationale:

Teaching the most crucial content early in the session is an effective strategy to engage learners and ensure that they receive essential information. This approach captures their attention and provides a solid foundation for the rest of the session. It helps establish relevance and interest, keeping the learners engaged throughout the educational program.

Choice B rationale:

Assuming that learners have no prior knowledge of first aid might not be the best approach. Adult learners often come with varying levels of knowledge and experience. It's important to assess the learners' prior knowledge and adjust the content accordingly to avoid redundancy or information that is too basic for them.

Choice C rationale:

Repetition of procedures and techniques is a valuable teaching strategy. Repetition aids in retention and comprehension. Reiterating important points reinforces learning and helps participants remember critical steps in first aid procedures. Avoiding repetition can lead to incomplete understanding and retention.

Choice D rationale:

Dividing the planned program into several sessions held about 1 week apart might not be the most effective strategy for community education. Spacing the sessions too far apart could result in learners forgetting the content or losing interest. It's better to maintain a consistent schedule to ensure continuity and engagement.