An RN is delegating care activities to a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Which of the following is the priority criterion the RN should consider when delegating?

Rationale:

A. A client who has pneumonia and has an axillary temperature of 38° C (101° F) has an elevated temperature, but it is less critical than immediate concerns with circulation.

B. A client who has diarrhea and requests clear liquids for breakfast needs dietary adjustments but does not present as urgent.

C. A client who has a cast on the left leg and reports numbness and paresthesia could be experiencing complications such as compartment syndrome, which is an urgent condition requiring immediate assessment.

D. A client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus and has a fasting blood glucose level of 150 is important to monitor but not as immediately critical as potential complications with circulation.

Rationale:

A. A young adult client admitted for acute glomerulonephritis following a viral infection does not indicate a mandatory report situation.

B. A dependent adult admitted for the treatment of a spiral fracture suggests potential abuse or neglect. As mandated reporters, nurses are required to report suspicions of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.

C. A young adult client admitted for asthma and has track marks that may indicate IV drug abuse does not necessarily require mandatory reporting unless there is evidence of abuse or harm that needs to be reported.

D. An emancipated minor who has acute appendicitis and wants to leave the facility without treatment may raise concerns about the minor's capacity to make decisions, but it does not automatically necessitate reporting to an outside agency.