The nurse is performing discharge teaching for a patient who has had major abdominal surgery.
Which statement or question by the nurse would be appropriate?

Choice A rationale:

In the SBAR method, "S" stands for Situation. This portion of the report includes a brief and concise statement about the patient's current situation or problem. In this case, option A provides a clear and specific statement about the patient's situation, indicating that Mr. Jones is being transferred to another unit from the emergency room. The nurse would identify this statement as the "situation" portion of the SBAR report because it conveys the current status of the patient and the reason for the communication.

Choice B rationale:

Option B discusses the patient's symptoms and condition in detail, focusing on the left knee swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness. While this information is important, it falls under the "Background" section of the SBAR report, not the "Situation" section. The "Situation" section should provide a brief overview of the patient's current status and the reason for the communication, which choice A accurately conveys.

Choice C rationale:

Option C mentions the patient's request for a specific bed location, which is relevant to the patient's preferences but does not constitute the "situation" portion of the SBAR report. This information is more appropriate for the "Recommendation" or "Request" section of the SBAR communication model.

Choice D rationale:

Option D provides information about the patient's history of left knee pain following a motor vehicle accident four days ago. While this information is important for understanding the patient's background, it does not represent the current situation or reason for the communication. Therefore, it does not fit the "situation" portion of the SBAR report.

Choice A rationale:

Restrain the patient with a chemical sedative. Rationale: Restraints, especially chemical sedatives, should be avoided whenever possible due to the risk of complications and patient distress. Restraints can lead to decreased mobility, increased agitation, and other adverse effects. They should only be used as a last resort and with appropriate justification, such as ensuring patient or staff safety in emergency situations.

Choice B rationale:

Encourage the patient to use grab bars located near toilets and showers. Rationale: Installing grab bars in bathrooms helps prevent falls by providing support and stability for patients, especially those with mobility issues. Encouraging their use promotes patient independence and safety while performing essential activities of daily living.

Choice C rationale:

Place the call light within the patient's reach. Rationale: Placing the call light within the patient's reach ensures that the patient can easily summon assistance when needed. Prompt response to patient requests can prevent accidents and falls by addressing the patient's needs in a timely manner.

Choice D rationale:

Conduct rounds every four hours. Rationale: Conducting regular rounds allows healthcare providers to assess the patient's condition, address their needs, and identify potential fall risks. However, the specific frequency of rounds may vary based on the patient's condition and the healthcare facility's policies. Some patients may require more frequent monitoring, especially if they are at a higher risk of falling.

Choice E rationale:

Apply brakes on wheelchairs and beds. Rationale: Applying brakes on wheelchairs and beds prevents unintended movement, enhancing patient safety and reducing the risk of falls. It ensures that the patient's mobility aids remain stationary, providing stability when the patient is transferring or repositioning.