A nurse receives a telephone prescription from a provider for a client who is experiencing pain. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Rationale

A. Replace the infusion pump: If an infusion pump malfunctions, the immediate action is to stop the malfunctioning device and replace it with a functioning pump to ensure the client receives the prescribed IV fluids or medications safely and accurately. Prompt replacement prevents medication errors or interruption of therapy.

B. Plug the infusion pump into a grounded outlet: While using a grounded outlet is important for electrical safety, simply plugging in the malfunctioning pump does not resolve device errors or ensure proper function. The pump may still deliver incorrect flow rates.

C. Notify the housekeeping department: Housekeeping is not responsible for the maintenance or repair of medical devices. Notifying them would not address the malfunction or protect the client from potential harm.

D. Check the expiration date on the safety inspection sticker: While verifying inspection dates is part of routine equipment checks, it does not address an immediate malfunction. The priority is to replace the pump to maintain safe and continuous therapy.

Rationale

A. Guided imagery: Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that uses mental visualization to reduce anxiety and promote calmness. It is safe, noninvasive, and can be implemented immediately before surgery to help the client manage preoperative stress.

B. Acupuncture: While acupuncture may help with pain or anxiety, it requires a trained practitioner and time to perform. It is not practical as a short-term intervention immediately prior to surgery.

C. Herbal medicine: Herbal remedies are not recommended immediately before surgery because they can interact with anesthesia and other medications, potentially increasing bleeding risk or affecting drug metabolism. Safety concerns limit their use in the preoperative period.

D. Magnet therapy: Magnet therapy lacks evidence for reducing anxiety and is not a standard complementary therapy for preoperative stress. Recommending it would not provide meaningful benefit for surgical preparation.