The practical nurse (PN) is assisting the recreational director of a long-term care facility in planning outdoor activities for wheelchair-bound older residents who are mentally alert. Which activity should the PN suggest that meets the physical and social needs of these residents?

Moving the client away from the stimuli in the dayroom and providing a calm environment, it may help to de-escalate the situation and reduce agitation. This action prioritizes the well-being of the client and helps to maintain a safe and therapeutic environment for all individuals involved.
A. Administer an as-needed (PRN) medication for agitation: Administering medication should not be the first action taken in this situation. It is important to first assess the client's condition and attempt to de-escalate the situation through non-pharmacological means. Medication should be considered if other interventions are ineffective or if there is an immediate risk of harm to the client or others.
B. Notify the client's healthcare provider: While it may be necessary to notify the client's healthcare provider about the situation, it is not the first action that should be implemented. The immediate priority is to ensure the safety of the client and those around them by providing support and supervision.
C. Escort the client to a calm and quiet place: Escorting the client to a calm and quiet place can be a helpful intervention, but it may not be the first action to take. It is important to first address the immediate safety concerns and attempt to de-escalate the situation. Once the client is calm and cooperative, they can be escorted to a more suitable environment if necessary.

The finding that is the highest priority for the PN to report to the charge nurse is the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 75 mg/dL or 12.9 mmol/L. This result indicates an elevated BUN level, which can be indicative of impaired kidney function. In a client receiving chemotherapy, an elevated BUN level may suggest chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicity or other kidney-related complications. Prompt reporting is crucial to ensure appropriate intervention and management of the client's kidney function.
B. While the platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 109/L is slightly below the normal reference range, it does not pose an immediate life-threatening risk. However, it should still be monitored and reported to the healthcare team for ongoing assessment and evaluation.
C. Decreased deep tendon reflexes may be an expected side effect of certain chemotherapy medications or a manifestation of neurotoxicity. While this finding should be documented and monitored, it is not as urgent as the elevated BUN level.
D. Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy, but they may also be indicative of other underlying issues such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or gastrointestinal complications. While this finding should be addressed and managed, it is not the highest priority compared to the elevated BUN level.