The practical nurse (PN) is providing care for a client who is ordered nothing by mouth (NPO) after a small bowel resection. The client's nasogastric (NG) tube is connected to low intermitent suction. The client reports dizziness and tingling in digits. Which assessment finding by the PN should be reported to the healthcare provider?

Choice A rationale:

Asking the client to describe the intensity of the eye pain using the numerical pain scale is not the most relevant action in this situation. The client's statement indicates a misconception about the purpose of pilocarpine eye drops, so addressing this misunderstanding should be the focus.

Choice B rationale:

Reminding the client that the action of the eye drops is to decrease internal eye pressure is the appropriate action. Pilocarpine eye drops are used to treat glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure, not to anesthetize the eye.

Choice C rationale:

Documenting in the chart that the client understands the action and use of the eye drops might be necessary but should not be the first action taken. The priority is to correct the client's misunderstanding about the eye drops.

Choice D rationale:

Clarifying with the client that eye pain in glaucoma is uncommon, so drops are rarely needed, is not accurate. While eye pain might not be a common symptom of glaucoma, pilocarpine eye drops are specifically used to manage intraocular pressure and are not intended to address eye pain.

The correct answer is choice B: Children need time to actively explore their environment. Choice A rationale:

Playpens do provide a sense of security for the child, but confining the child solely to the playpen might hinder their developmental needs. While it is essential to have a safe space for a toddler, children also require opportunities to explore and engage with their environment actively.

Choice B rationale:

The practical nurse (PN) should use this rationale when responding to the parent. Children, especially toddlers, learn and develop crucial skills through active exploration of their environment. Being confined to a playpen for extended periods may limit their opportunities for learning, hinder their physical development, and restrict social interaction, which are essential aspects of their growth.

Choice C rationale:

While playpens can provide a safe environment for a toddler when used appropriately and under supervision, keeping the child confined for the sole purpose of preventing dirtiness is not recommended. Overusing playpens can hinder a child's natural curiosity and desire to explore, potentially affecting their overall development.

Choice D rationale:

While over-concern about appearance can be harmful in some contexts, it is not directly related to the child being kept in a playpen to avoid getting dirty. The primary concern here is about providing the child with adequate opportunities for exploration, growth, and development, rather than focusing solely on appearance.