The nurse is assisting in the care of the client who is on the behavioral health unit.

Exhibits

Select words from the choices below to fill in each blank in the following sentence (Separate using commas).

The nurse should plan to

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and

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The correct answers are C and D.

Choice A reason: Preferred bath time is a personal preference and comfort-related aspect of patient care. While it is important for overall patient satisfaction and care planning, it is not critical information for a change-of-shift report following a total knee arthroscopy. The focus in such reports is typically on clinical status, immediate care needs, and potential complications.

Choice B reason: Admission vital signs are the initial measurements taken upon the patient’s admission to the healthcare facility. These are baseline values that can be referenced later to note any significant changes. However, for a change-of-shift report, especially 2 days postoperative, the most current vital signs and any changes since surgery are more pertinent than the admission values.

Choice C reason: The time of the last pain medication is crucial information for a change-of-shift report. Pain management is a key aspect of postoperative care, particularly after procedures like total knee arthroscopy. Knowing when the last dose was administered helps the incoming nurse manage the patient’s pain effectively and anticipate when the next dose is due.

Choice D reason: The steps required for dressing change are essential to include in the change-of-shift report. Proper wound care and dressing changes are vital to prevent infection and ensure proper healing after surgery. Detailed instructions on the dressing change process help maintain consistency in care between different caregivers.

Choice A rationale:

Asking, "What makes you think the staff is following you?" is a confrontational approach and may not be helpful in building rapport or addressing the client's paranoid beliefs. It can come across as dismissive and may exacerbate the client's anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

Telling the client, "The psychiatric staff is not FBI. They are here to help you," is a straightforward response but may not effectively address the client's concerns or build rapport. It does not acknowledge the client's feelings and may not be well-received.

Choice C rationale:

Asking, "Why do you feel the staff is the FBI?" is a more open-ended and therapeutic approach. It encourages the client to express their thoughts and feelings, providing an opportunity for the nurse to better understand the client's perspective.

Choice D rationale:

Saying, "This must be very frightening for you. Let's talk more about it," is the most empathetic and client-centered response. It acknowledges the client's emotions and offers support. It also opens the door for further discussion and therapeutic communication, allowing the nurse to explore the client's fears and concerns in a non-confrontational manner.