The nurse is caring for a client and the following sequence of events occur:. 1428: BP: 88/36 mm Hg. 1430: Dr. Jones paged.

1445: No return call from Dr. Jones.

1450: BP 90/40 mm Hg. 1455: Dr. Jones paged and charge nurse notified.

1505: No return call from Dr. Jones.

What should the nurse document in the patient's chart regarding the sequence of events described above?

Choice A rationale:

Using correction fluid to correct an erroneous written entry is not appropriate as it can obscure the information and raise questions about the accuracy of the documentation. It is better to strike through the error with a single line, write the correct information, and sign and date the correction.

Choice B rationale:

Documenting changes in the patient's status is crucial for ensuring continuity of care and keeping all healthcare providers informed about the patient's condition.

Choice C rationale:

Leaving a blank line for the charge nurse to add additional documentation is not recommended. Each entry should be complete and include all relevant information at the time of documentation.

Choice D rationale:

Planning to finish charting the procedure after returning from a break is not appropriate. Charting should be done in real-time to ensure accuracy and timeliness of the information.

Choice E rationale:

Charting using military (24-hour) time is appropriate as it reduces confusion and ensures a standardized way of documenting time across different healthcare settings.

Choice A rationale:

Encourage the patient to use an incentive spirometer. Rationale: Encouraging the use of an incentive spirometer helps improve lung function and prevent respiratory complications. It promotes deep breathing and prevents atelectasis, especially in patients experiencing dyspnea.

Choice B rationale:

Auscultate lung sounds bilaterally. Rationale: Auscultating lung sounds helps the nurse assess for abnormal breath sounds, such as wheezing or crackles, which can indicate respiratory distress. This assessment is crucial in managing a patient with dyspnea.

Choice C rationale:

Ambulate the patient in the hall. Rationale: Ambulating the patient can worsen dyspnea in some cases, especially if the patient is experiencing severe respiratory distress. Therefore, this intervention may not be appropriate for a patient with dyspnea.

Choice D rationale:

Position the bed in high fowlers. Rationale: Positioning the patient in high fowlers (sitting upright with the head of the bed elevated) helps improve lung expansion and ease breathing. This position maximizes the patient's lung capacity and can provide relief from dyspnea.

Choice E rationale:

Assess the pulse oximetry. Rationale: Monitoring pulse oximetry levels is essential in assessing the patient's oxygen saturation. It helps the nurse determine if the patient is receiving adequate oxygenation, which is crucial in managing dyspnea. A normal oxygen saturation range is typically 95% to 100%.