The nurse is planning care for a client who has a fourth-degree midline laceration that occurred during vaginal delivery of an 8-pound 10-ounce (3674 grams) infant.

Which intervention has the highest priority for this client?

The correct answer is Choice C: Assign the remainder of medication administration to another Practical Nurse (PN) who is performing treatments.

Choice A reason: Denying the medication aide’s request to leave before all medications are given does not address the issue at hand and could potentially jeopardize patient care. It is important to acknowledge the medication aide’s request and find an appropriate solution that ensures patient safety and well-being.

Choice B reason: Delegating medication administration to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) who may not have the necessary training or authorization could lead to medication errors, adverse drug reactions, or other negative outcomes. It is essential to adhere to the scope of practice guidelines and facility policies when assigning tasks to UAPs.

Choice C reason: Reassigning the medication administration to another PN with the necessary qualifications and training ensures that patients receive their medications in a safe and timely manner. This action aligns with the practical nurse’s responsibility to supervise and delegate tasks appropriately, maintaining patient safety and upholding the standards of care.

Choice D reason: Documenting why medications were not given to each resident is an important aspect of maintaining accurate and comprehensive patient records. However, it does not address the immediate need to administer medications to residents, and it is not a substitute for ensuring that patients receive their prescribed treatments. Documentation should be completed after the appropriate steps have been taken to administer medications or arrange for an alternative solution.

Choice A rationale:

Substituting natural fruit juices for carbonated drinks may be a beneficial dietary change, but it does not address the client's immediate issue of severe pain and inability to bear weight on the right ankle. This choice does not directly address the client's current problem and should not be the priority instruction in discharge teaching.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging active range of motion to limit stiffness is the most appropriate instruction in this situation. The client's inability to bear weight on the right ankle after making dietary changes may be related to musculoskeletal issues or gouty arthritis. Active range of motion exercises can help prevent stiffness and improve joint function.

Choice C rationale:

Using an electric heating pad when pain is at its worst may provide some comfort, but it does not address the underlying cause of the severe pain in the right ankle. It is important to address the cause of the pain rather than relying solely on symptom management.

Choice D rationale:

Avoiding the consumption of wine, beer, and coffee may be relevant for some medical conditions, but it does not directly address the client's current problem of severe ankle pain and inability to bear weight. It is not the most immediate concern.