The practical nurse (PN) is assessing an older client with left-sided heart failure (HF). What intervention is most important for the PN to implement?

A thready pulse refers to a pulse that is weak and difficult to palpate. It may disappear or weaken with light pressure. This can be an indication of decreased peripheral perfusion or reduced blood volume. By documenting the finding as "Thready pulse volume," the nurse is accurately describing the quality of the pulse and its response to light pressure.

Incorrect:

A. Missing pulse: A missing pulse would mean that the pulse is not palpable at all, even without applying pressure.
B. Light pressure applied to pulse: This is not a description of the pulse quality, but rather a description of the action taken to assess the pulse.
C. Pulse skips beats: This would mean that the pulse is irregular, with beats being missed or added. In this case, the pulse disappears when light pressure is applied and returns when the pressure is removed, which describes a thready pulse volume.

This comment by the practical nurse (PN) is likely to be the most helpful to the client. By offering to sit with the client, the PN shows empathy, support, and a willingness to provide companionship. This approach acknowledges the client's feelings of isolation and offers a listening ear. It provides an opportunity for the client to express his emotions, thoughts, or concerns if he wishes to do so. The presence of a caring and compassionate individual can help alleviate some of the client's feelings of loneliness and may encourage him to open up and engage in conversation or activities when he is ready.

A. "Come into the recreation area. We have your favorite card game and I will play it with you."
This choice assumes that engaging in a specific activity will automatically help the client and solve his current feelings of reclusiveness. While offering an activity may be beneficial in some cases, it is important to first address the client's emotional state and provide support before suggesting specific activities. Pushing the client to participate in an activity without acknowledging his current feelings may further alienate him and not address the underlying issues causing his reclusive behavior.
B. "Why do you want to stay in your room today?"
This choice may come across as confrontational or judgmental. Asking why the client wants to stay in his room implies that there is something wrong with his decision or that he needs to justify his behavior. This approach may make the client defensive or withdraw further. It is essential to create a safe and supportive environment where the client feels understood and validated, rather than questioning his choices.
C. "I know you are sad about not seeing your family as often, but they are visiting as much as they can."
While acknowledging the client's sadness about not seeing his family is important, dismissing his feelings by stating that his family is visiting as much as they can minimize or invalidate his emotions. It is crucial to provide empathy and validate the client's emotions without making assumptions or downplaying his experiences. This approach may not address the client's current state of reclusiveness or provide the support he needs.