A patient admitted with acute renal failure asks for pain medication for a headache described as five out of ten on the pain scale. The nurse checks the MAR and sees that the only pain medication ordered is Ibuprofen. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first to ensure patient safety?

Choice A reason: The nurse assistant typically performs tasks such as patient hygiene, ambulation, and basic monitoring under the supervision of registered nurses. They are not usually responsible for documenting vital signs during the intra-operative period.

Choice B reason: The anesthesiologist is primarily focused on managing the patient's anesthesia and monitoring their physiological status during surgery. While they do keep track of vital signs, the formal documentation is typically the responsibility of the circulating nurse.

Choice C reason: The scrub nurse is focused on maintaining the sterile field, handling surgical instruments, and assisting the surgeon. They do not leave the sterile field to document vital signs.

Choice D reason: The circulating nurse is responsible for overall patient care in the operating room, including documentation of vital signs. They manage the operating room environment, ensure patient safety, and record all necessary information during the intra-operative period.

Choice A reason: Eating foods high in potassium can be important for patients taking diuretics, as diuretics can cause potassium loss. However, for SIADH patients, this is not a primary focus unless they are on diuretics that specifically lead to potassium loss.

Choice B reason: Limiting fluid intake is crucial for patients with SIADH to prevent fluid overload and hyponatremia. This statement aligns with proper management of the condition.

Choice C reason: Patients with SIADH need to carefully manage their sodium intake. Rather than reducing sodium, they often need to maintain or increase their sodium intake to help counteract the effects of SIADH, which causes dilutional hyponatremia (low blood sodium levels). Therefore, this statement indicates a need for additional instruction.

Choice D reason: Weighing oneself daily is an important practice for SIADH patients to monitor for sudden weight changes, which can indicate fluid imbalances. This statement is appropriate and does not require additional instruction.