The nurse determines that an elderly client with pneumonia has a nursing problem of "altered nutrition, less than body requirements." Which instruction should the nurse give the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) helping with the care of this client?

Choice A Reason: Demonstrating how to complete an adverse occurrence or variance report is important, but not the most important objective. This report is a tool for quality improvement and risk management, but it does not prevent litigation by itself. The nurse should also communicate effectively with the client and/or their family, and document the incident and the actions taken.

Choice B Reason: Discussing how to handle complaints from clients and/or their families is the most important objective, as it can help prevent or resolve conflicts, and avoid escalation to legal action. The nurse should listen empathetically, acknowledge the client's feelings and concerns, apologize if appropriate, explain the situation and the plan of care, and involve the supervisor or other resources if needed.

Choice C Reason: Describing how to obtain legal services if needed is relevant, but not the most important objective.

This objective implies that litigation is inevitable or expected, which may create a negative or defensive attitude in the staff nurses. The nurse should focus on preventing litigation by providing safe and quality care and building trust and rapport with the clients and/or their families.

Choice D Reason: Maintaining personal malpractice insurance is advisable, but not the most important objective. This objective may protect the nurse's personal assets in case of a lawsuit, but it does not prevent litigation from occurring. The nurse should follow the standards of practice and the policies and procedures of the organization, and document accurately and thoroughly.

Choice A Reason: This is not the first priority because it does not address the client's immediate needs. The nurse should obtain the client's legal records for power of attorney, but this can be done later.

Choice B Reason: This is a good action because it helps relieve the client's pain and discomfort. The nurse should give analgesic medications as needed (PRN), but this is not enough to meet the client's holistic needs.

Choice C Reason: This is not an appropriate action because it may cause harm to the client. The nurse should not discontinue the intravenous infusion without a valid reason and a healthcare provider's order.

Choice D Reason: This is the best action because it respects the client's wishes and provides him with quality end-of-life care. The nurse should ask the palliative care team to speak with the client and offer him emotional, spiritual, and physical support.