An older client's spouse reports to the nurse that there has been a behavior change in the client for the past several days. The client was recently seen by the healthcare provider at the clinic and was treated for seasonal allergies and insomnia. Which action is most important for the nurse to implement?

Rationale

A. In heart failure exacerbation, decreased cardiac output can lead to poor peripheral perfusion, potentially manifesting as weak or diminished pedal pulses. However, in the context of acute symptoms such as palpitations or chest discomfort, assessing the rhythm and rate of central pulses (like the apical pulse) may be more immediate and informative.

B. Capillary refill time assesses peripheral perfusion and can indicate circulatory status. Prolonged capillary refill (>2 seconds) may indicate poor perfusion, which could occur in heart failure exacerbation due to reduced cardiac output. It is a valuable assessment, but in this scenario, focusing on more central aspects such as the heart rhythm is typically more immediate.

C. Assessing the rhythm of the apical pulse is crucial in this scenario. The client's sensation of "flopping" in the chest suggests palpitations or irregular heartbeats, which could indicate arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or other dysrhythmias.

D. Skin elasticity primarily assesses hydration status and may provide information about overall skin integrity but is less directly related to the acute symptoms described by the client. While important in general assessments, it does not directly address the urgent need to assess for arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats.

A. Since the client is already on a fraction of inspired oxygen (FIO2) of 35% and has successfully weaned off the ventilator, increasing the FIO2 may not be necessary unless the client's oxygenation status deteriorates post-extubation.
B. As the client has successfully weaned off pressure support and is now at 0 cm H2O, the healthcare provider may consider transitioning to a different ventilator mode such as T-piece or CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) to further assess the client's ability to breathe spontaneously without ventilator support.
C. Ice chips are typically offered to conscious patients to alleviate thirst or dry mouth. The client was previously intubated and may not be fully conscious or able to swallow safely immediately post- extubation.
D. Since the client has been weaned off pressure support successfully, there is no indication to set the ventilator to provide mandatory breaths. The focus is on assessing the client's ability to breathe spontaneously.
E. Even though the client has been weaned off the ventilator, it's important to ensure adequate oxygenation. Setting up supplemental oxygen delivery, such as via nasal cannula or face mask, can support the client's oxygen needs during the transition phase post-extubation.
F. Since the client has been successfully weaned to 0 cm H2O pressure support and the healthcare provider is evaluating the client, gathering supplies for potential extubation is appropriate. This includes ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies for a safe extubation procedure are readily available at the bedside.
G. Unless specifically indicated for other medical reasons not mentioned, there is no immediate need to place a nasogastric tube based on the information provided about the client's current condition post- weaning.