An older adult client with a history of heart failure is admitted with influenza and requests assistance to sit up in bed to eat lunch. The nurse observes the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) wearing a gown and gloves to assist the client. Which action should the nurse take?

A. Observe insertion site: The nurse should assess the suprapubic catheter insertion site for signs of infection, redness, or other complications. This is crucial to ensure the catheter is functioning correctly and to prevent infection.

B. Assess perineal area: The perineal area is not directly related to the suprapubic catheter, as it is inserted into the bladder through the abdomen. The focus should be on the insertion site and the catheter itself.

C. Measure abdominal girth: While measuring abdominal girth could be important if the client has issues such as fluid retention or urinary retention, it is not the primary focus for routine assessment of a suprapubic catheter.

D. Palpate flank area: The flank area may be relevant for kidney assessment, but for a suprapubic catheter, the primary focus should be on the catheter insertion site and its function.

A. Temperature 99.9° F (37.7° C): A mild fever (99.9°F) is not a direct indicator of dehydration but could be related to other factors, including the body’s response to stress. It is not an immediate priority compared to other signs like poor skin turgor or low blood pressure.

B. Respirations 34 breaths/minute: An elevated respiratory rate may occur with dehydration, but it is not specific to dehydration alone. It should be monitored, especially when combined with other symptoms, but it is not a sole indicator of dehydration.

C. Heart rate 136 beats/minute: A heart rate of 136 beats per minute is elevated and may indicate dehydration, as the body attempts to compensate for reduced blood volume. Tachycardia is a common response to fluid loss and requires immediate follow-up.

D. Weak peripheral pulses: Weak peripheral pulses reflect poor circulation, which can be a result of dehydration. This finding indicates decreased perfusion and demands urgent attention to restore fluid balance and ensure proper circulation.

E. Dry mucous membranes: Dry mucous membranes are a hallmark sign of dehydration, as the body reduces fluid availability for non-essential processes. This finding should be immediately addressed, as it is a clear sign of fluid loss.

F. Body mass index (BMI) 21.9 kg/m²: BMI is a general indicator of body weight and is not related to fluid balance. While it provides useful information about the client’s overall health, it does not directly point to dehydration or fluid loss.

G. Blood pressure 100/52 mm Hg: Low blood pressure, especially in the context of dehydration, is a significant concern. A blood pressure of 100/52 mm Hg is a sign of hypovolemia or fluid loss, and immediate intervention is needed to restore normal fluid volume and prevent shock.

H. Poor skin turgor: Poor skin turgor is a classic sign of dehydration, where the skin remains tented after being pinched. This indicates a lack of sufficient fluid in the body, which must be addressed immediately to prevent further complications.