Prior to administering pain medication to an adult postoperative client, what information should the practical nurse (PN) obtain? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale:

Calling the supervisor to ask for another nurse is not the first action the charge nurse should take when noticing the smell of alcohol on a nurse's breath. While it's important to involve the supervisor, immediate action to ensure patient safety is required.

Choice B rationale:

Documenting objective findings about the situation is a valid step in the process, but it should not be the first action. The charge nurse's primary responsibility is to address the immediate safety concerns.

Choice C rationale:

Removing the nurse from the client care area is the first action the charge nurse should take when smelling alcohol on a nurse's breath. This action ensures patient safety and prevents potential harm caused by impaired nursing care.

Choice D rationale:

Assigning clients to the remaining staff is not the first action to take when there is suspicion of alcohol impairment in a nurse. Patient safety and addressing the situation involving the impaired nurse take precedence.

Choice A rationale:

Inquiring about a family history of suicide is relevant but not the priority when a client is actively expressing suicidal ideations. Assessing the client's immediate risk and intent is more critical.

Choice B rationale:

Understanding the stresses in the client's life is important, but asking about a plan for self-harm takes precedence in assessing the client's immediate danger.

Choice C rationale:

This question directly addresses the client's intent and plan for self-harm. Identifying a plan is crucial in assessing the level of risk and determining the appropriate intervention.

Choice D rationale:

While having someone to discuss feelings with is important, it is not the primary concern when a client is expressing suicidal ideations. Assessing the client's immediate risk and plan for self-harm should come first.