The charge nurse is planning for the shift and has a registered nurse (RN) and a practical nurse (PN) on the team. Which client should the charge nurse assign to the RN?

The correct order is:

- Note date and time of the behavior.

- Discuss the issue privately with the UAP.

- Plan for scheduled break times.

- Evaluate the UAP for signs of improvement.

Here are the reasons for this order:

- Note date and time of the behavior. This should be done first, as it can provide objective evidence of the UAP's behavior and its impact on patient care and staff workload. The unit manager should document any incidents or complaints related to the UAP's behavior in a factual manner.

- Discuss the issue privately with the UAP. This should be done second, as it can provide an opportunity for feedback and clarification. The unit manager should use a respectful and professional tone, and explain how the UAP's behavior affects patient safety and staff morale. The unit manager should also listen to any concerns or challenges that the UAP may have, and offer support or guidance as needed.

- Plan for scheduled break times. This should be done third, as it can provide a solution or prevention strategy for future occurrences. The unit manager should work with the UAP and other staff members to ensure that there are adequate breaks and coverage for patient care. The unit manager should also review any policies or procedures related to break times and staff attendance.

- Evaluate the UAP for signs of improvement. This should be done last, as it can provide a measure of effectiveness and accountability. The unit manager should monitor and document any changes in the UAP's behavior, performance, or attitude. The unit manager should also provide positive reinforcement or corrective action as appropriate.

Choice A: Reinforcing need for adequate hydration is not the most important action for the nurse to implement, as this is a general recommendation for all clients and does not address the specific needs of this client. This is a distractor choice.

Choice B: Providing typed instructions for healthy diet selection is not the most important action for the nurse to implement, as this may not be feasible or accessible for this client who lives in a poor neighborhood and may have limited resources and literacy. This is another distractor choice.

Choice C: Scheduling follow-up appointments with specialists is the most important action for the nurse to implement, as this can ensure that this client receives continuous and comprehensive care for their complex and chronic conditions, which can improve their outcomes and quality of life. Therefore, this is the correct choice.

Choice D: Demonstrating specific breathing and walking exercises is not the most important action for the nurse to implement, as this can be done by other health care professionals or at home by the client. This is another distractor choice.