During a change-of-shift report, a night shift nurse informs the day shift nurse that a newly admitted client was disoriented and combative during the night. Which of the following actions should the day shift nurse take?

Move the client to a room near the nurses' station.

• A. Keep the client's television on with the volume low: This is incorrect because it does not address the client's safety or agitation. The television might also be a source of confusion or stimulation for the client.
• B. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to minimize interaction with the client: This is incorrect because it is an invasive and unnecessary procedure that increases the risk of infection and trauma. It also violates the client's dignity and autonomy.
• C. Consult the provider regarding administering a mild sedative on a schedule: This is incorrect because it is not the first action to take. The nurse should first assess the client's condition and identify possible causes of disorientation and combativeness, such as pain, infection, medication side effects, or delirium. Sedatives should be used as a last resort and only with informed consent.
• D. Move the client to a room near the nurses' station: This is correct because it allows for close observation and supervision of the client, which can prevent injury and promote safety. It also facilitates frequent interaction and reassurance from the staff, which can reduce anxiety and agitation.

Choice A rationale:

Sodium level of 142 mEq/L is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L) for adults. However, normal ranges for children might vary slightly, but 142 mEq/L is not indicative of dehydration on its own.

Choice B rationale:

Respiratory rate of 22/min is within the normal range for a 3-year-old child (20-30 breaths/min) This rate alone does not provide evidence of dehydration.

Choice C rationale:

Potassium level of 3.9 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5-5.1 mEq/L) for children. Like sodium, normal ranges for potassium may differ slightly in pediatric patients, but 3.9 mEq/L is not alarming on its own.

Choice D rationale:

Heart rate of 148/min is elevated for a 3-year-old child. Tachycardia is a common sign of dehydration in pediatric patients. This increased heart rate indicates the body's compensatory mechanism to maintain cardiac output in response to decreased blood volume, a typical consequence of dehydration.