The practical nurse (PN) is preparing to transfer an unresponsive client from the bed to a stretcher. Which client data is most important for the PN to obtain before beginning the transfer?

A. Reporting any foot injury or sore that does not readily heal is the most crucial instruction for minimizing long-term complications in diabetes management. Poor circulation and neuropathy in diabetic patients can lead to serious complications from minor foot injuries, so prompt medical evaluation is essential for preventing severe outcomes.
B. Drying feet thoroughly between toes is important for preventing fungal infections, but it is a standard part of foot care rather than a primary measure for preventing long-term complications like ulcers or infections.
C. Ensuring that shoe size fits to minimize rubbing and blisters is important for foot health, but it is not as critical as promptly addressing any injuries or sores that may arise.
D. Monitoring fingerstick glucose daily for tight control is necessary for diabetes management but does not directly address foot care issues. It is important for overall disease management but not specifically for immediate foot care concerns.

A. Thrombocytopenia
Monitoring for thrombocytopenia is not directly related to the treatment of fluid volume deficit. While it is important to watch for any blood-related issues, thrombocytopenia is not a common concern specifically due to the administration of isotonic fluids like 0.9% sodium chloride. This condition would not be a primary focus in this scenario.
B. Pulmonary edema
The client should be monitored for pulmonary edema as a potential complication of fluid resuscitation. Administering large volumes of isotonic fluids can lead to fluid overload, which may cause pulmonary edema. This is especially important given the presence of pneumonia and the client's symptoms of shortness of breath and crackles in the lung fields.
C. Hypokalemia
Hypokalemia should be monitored as a potential complication of isotonic fluid administration. Although 0.9% sodium chloride does not contain potassium, patients receiving IV fluids for a significant period may develop electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia. Monitoring serum electrolytes is necessary to address such imbalances.
D. Alkalosis
Alkalosis is less likely to occur with isotonic fluids like 0.9% sodium chloride. This type of fluid generally does not cause acid-base imbalances such as alkalosis. The treatment for fluid volume deficit is not expected to lead to alkalosis, which is more commonly associated with metabolic alkalosis from other sources.
E. Phlebitis
Phlebitis should be monitored due to the presence of a peripheral IV access device. Long-term or large-volume infusions can irritate the vein, leading to inflammation or phlebitis. Regular inspection of the IV site for redness, swelling, or pain is necessary to prevent and manage this complication.
F. Hyponatremia
Hyponatremia is not a direct concern with isotonic fluids like 0.9% sodium chloride, as these fluids maintain sodium levels without causing a dilution effect. Monitoring sodium levels is generally more relevant in cases where hypotonic fluids are used.
G. Diarrhea and vomiting
Diarrhea and vomiting are not directly related to isotonic fluid administration. Although these symptoms can contribute to fluid volume deficits, they are not a common complication of fluid resuscitation.
H. Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia is not a concern with isotonic fluids like 0.9% sodium chloride. Hyperglycemia is more associated with fluids containing glucose, such as dextrose solutions. Therefore, monitoring for hyperglycemia is not necessary in this context