Choice A rationale:

Assisting in discharging stable clients to home is not the most appropriate assignment when a mass casualty event has occurred. During such events, resources are needed for critically injured patients, and stable clients can typically be discharged by non-emergency staff.

Choice B rationale:

Determining the acuity and number of casualties arriving at the facility is the most appropriate assignment during a mass casualty event. This information is critical for allocating resources and providing the necessary level of care to those affected.

Choice C rationale:

Delegating tasks to emergency healthcare specialists may be necessary, but it is not the initial assignment for the nurse working on a medical-surgical unit. Assessing the situation and determining the acuity of incoming casualties take precedence.

Choice D rationale:

Providing informational updates to members of the media is not the role of a nurse during a mass casualty event. This task should be handled by hospital public relations or designated spokespersons to ensure accurate and controlled information dissemination.

The correct answer is choice c. Administer prescribed stool softener.

Choice A rationale:

Administering prescribed PRN sleep medications is not the highest priority. While rest is important, managing pain and preventing complications from the laceration take precedence.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the use of prescribed analgesic perineal sprays is beneficial for pain management, but it is not the highest priority intervention.

Choice C rationale:

Administering a prescribed stool softener is crucial because it helps prevent constipation, which can cause significant pain and strain on the perineal area, potentially worsening the laceration.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging breastfeeding to promote uterine involution is important for postpartum recovery, but it does not directly address the immediate needs related to the fourth-degree laceration.