The practical nurse (PN) is auscultating a client’s heart sounds. Which heart sounds are considered abnormal findings that should be reported to the charge nurse?

Correct:

B- Making these changes will also help me avoid other chronic health conditions. This statement indicates an understanding because the client recognizes that the lifestyle changes discussed will not only help prevent or manage diabetes but also have a positive impact on other chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease and obesity.

E- If I have symptoms like increased thirst and urination, I should come in and get my blood sugar checked. This statement indicates an understanding because the client acknowledges the importance of monitoring their blood sugar levels if they experience symptoms commonly associated with diabetes, such as increased thirst and urination.

Incorrect choices:

A- If my fasting blood sugar is less than 100 next time, I can go back to my usual eating habits. This statement indicates a misunderstanding. It suggests that as long as the client's fasting blood sugar is below 100, they can resume their previous eating habits, which is not accurate. It's important to emphasize that long-term lifestyle changes are necessary, regardless of individual blood sugar readings.

C- I can never eat sugar again. This statement indicates a misunderstanding. While it's important to minimize the consumption of sugary foods and beverages, it's not necessary to completely eliminate all sugar from the diet. Moderation and mindful consumption are key.

D- If I make the changes we talked about, I will not get type 2 diabetes. This statement indicates a misunderstanding. While making positive lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, it does not guarantee complete prevention. Genetic and other factors can still influence an individual's susceptibility to the condition.

This question is related to the responsibilities and scope of practice of a practical nurse (PN) and a medication aide. A medication aide is a certified nursing assistant (CNA) who is responsible for administering daily medication to patients under the supervision of a licensed nurse, such as a PN or a registered nurse (RN). A PN is a licensed nurse who can provide routine care, observe patients’ health, assist doctors and RNs, and communicate instructions to patients regarding medication, home-based care, and preventative lifestyle changes.

Based on this information, the best action that the PN should take in this situation is c. Assign the remainder of medication administration to another PN who is performing treatments. This is because it would ensure that the medication administration is completed by another licensed nurse who has the knowledge, skills, and authority to do so. The PN who is performing treatments may have some spare time or be able to rearrange their schedule to accommodate the additional task. The PN should also communicate with the other PN and the medication aide about the situation and document the change of assignment in the patients’ records.

Option a is not a good choice, because it would be unfair and unethical to deny the medication aide’s request to leave if they are sick. The medication aide’s health and well-being are also important, and forcing them to stay and work could compromise their safety and the quality of care they provide to the patients.

Option b is not a good choice, because it would be outside the scope of practice of the UAPs to give medications to the patients. UAPs are not trained or certified to administer medications, and doing so could pose serious risks to the patients’ health and safety. The PN would also be liable for any errors or adverse outcomes that may result from the UAPs’ actions.

Option d is not a good choice, because it would not solve the problem of the medication administration being incomplete. Documenting why the medications were not given is important, but it is not enough to ensure that the patients receive their prescribed drugs and treatments. The PN still has the responsibility to find a way to complete the medication administration or delegate it to another qualified and available person.