The nurse is preparing a client who had a below-the-knee (BKA) amputation for discharge to home. Which recommendation(s) should the nurse provide this client? (Select all that apply.)

Delegation involves assigning tasks to individuals who have the appropriate skills and competence to perform them safely and effectively. Inserting urinary catheters for uncomplicated clients is a task that can be delegated to a practical nurse. It is a common procedure within the scope of practice for a practical nurse, and it does not require the level of assessment and critical thinking involved in evaluating and updating plans of care or receiving a postoperative client and conducting an assessment.

Verifying the readiness of clients for discharge typically involves comprehensive assessments, coordination with other healthcare professionals, and decision-making regarding the appropriateness of discharge. This task is generally performed by registered nurses (RNs) or other members of the healthcare team with advanced training.

Evaluating and updating plans of care for clients is a responsibility that falls within the scope of practice of registered nurses. It requires a higher level of assessment, clinical judgment, and decision-making, which are typically beyond the scope of practice of a practical nurse.

Receiving a postoperative client and conducting the assessment involves comprehensive assessment skills and critical thinking, which are typically within the scope of practice of a registered nurse or an advanced practice nurse.

Administering a large volume of medication in a single injection is not recommended for infants as it can lead to discomfort, tissue trauma, and potential complications such as muscle fibrosis or nerve injury. Dividing the medication into two injections with volumes under 1 mL is a common practice for infants and can help minimize discomfort and complications.

In addition, the nurse should select an appropriate needle size and injection site based on the infant's size and age. A 22 gauge 1 1/2 inch (3.8 cm) needle is too large for an infant and may cause discomfort and tissue damage. The nurse should use a smaller gauge needle and choose an appropriate injection site, such as the vastus lateralis muscle in the thigh or the dorsogluteal muscle in the buttocks, based on the infant's age and size.

Finally, administering an injection into the deltoid muscle is not recommended for infants as this muscle is not fully developed until later in childhood. Using a quick dart-like motion to inject into the dorsogluteal site is also not recommended as it can cause tissue damage and discomfort. Instead, the nurse should use a slow, steady technique to administer the injection while ensuring the infant is held securely by the parent or another caregiver.