The nurse is caring for a patient with COPD. Which intervention could be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

After rhinoplasty, nasal packing is often used to control bleeding and provide support to the nasal structures. Nasal packing can cause oral dryness, as it obstructs the normal airflow through the nasal passages, leading to mouth breathing. Mouth breathing, in turn, can cause dryness of the oral mucosa and throat, resulting in the sensation of dryness and the need to swallow frequently.

While bleeding is a possible complication after rhinoplasty, the patient's symptom of frequent swallowing is more indicative of oral dryness rather than bleeding.

Although adverse reactions to analgesics can occur, frequent swallowing is not a common symptom associated with analgesic adverse reactions. Other signs such as rash, difficulty breathing, or changes in vital signs would be more typical in case of an adverse reaction. Swallowing can be a normal response to surgery, but in this scenario, the most likely cause is the oral dryness caused by the nasal packing rather than a direct response to the analgesic.

Low oxygen saturation: Low oxygen saturation indicates a potential respiratory compromise and should be addressed promptly to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent further deterioration.

Previous injection drug user and alcohol misuse: Past injection drug use and alcohol misuse can have significant implications for the patient's health, including increased risk of infections, compromised immune function, and potential withdrawal symptoms. It is crucial for the nurse to be aware of these factors in order to provide appropriate care and support. Has productive cough severe enough to keep her awake: A severe productive cough that disrupts the patient's sleep suggests respiratory distress or possible worsening of the underlying condition. The nurse should assess the patient's respiratory status and implement interventions to alleviate the cough and improve rest.

Elevated temperature, pulse, and respiratory rate: An elevation in vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and respiratory rate, can indicate an infectious or inflammatory process. This warrants further assessment and intervention to manage the underlying condition. Diagnosis pneumonia: The diagnosis of pneumonia indicates a respiratory infection that requires close monitoring and appropriate treatment. The nurse should assess the patient's respiratory status, administer prescribed medications, and implement respiratory hygiene measures.

The following options are not immediate concerns or relevant assessment information:

Appointment the next day: While follow-up appointments are important, they do not require immediate attention upon receiving a hand-off report.

Marital status: Marital status is not typically an immediate concern for the nurse's assessment and care planning.

Daughter's name: The patient's family member's name is not an immediate concern or relevant assessment information for the nurse's immediate care.

Fever is present: While a fever is a symptom of an underlying condition, it is not the most critical concern.