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?

The correct answer is Choice A:

Assist in turning the client to one side. Choice A rationale:

When preparing a client with obstructive sleep apnea for sleep, the practical nurse (PN) should assist the client in turning to one side. This position is known as the lateral position and can be beneficial for clients with obstructive sleep apnea. Lying on one's side can help to reduce the likelihood of airway obstruction and minimize the occurrence of apnea (pauses in breathing) during sleep. This position promotes better airflow and can improve the client's overall sleep quality.

Choice B rationale:

Keeping oral suction equipment nearby (Choice B) might be appropriate for clients with respiratory issues or a risk of airway obstruction. However, it is not the best action for a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea primarily involves upper airway collapse, not excessive secretions or obstructions in the oral cavity.

Choice C rationale:

Offering to bring the client a sleeping pill (Choice C) is not an appropriate action for a client with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated episodes of blocked or restricted airflow during sleep. Sedative medications can further relax the muscles in the airway, worsening the condition and potentially leading to more severe apnea.

Choice D rationale:

Placing a cool air humidifier in the room (Choice D) may be helpful for clients who experience dryness or congestion in the airways during sleep. However, it is not specifically indicated for obstructive sleep apnea. While humidifiers can be beneficial for some sleep-related issues, they do not address the underlying cause of sleep apnea.

Observe the UAP's technique and communication skills during the bath.

The PN should directly observe the UAP's performance and provide feedback and guidance as needed. This can help ensure that the UAP follows the standards of care and respects the client's dignity and preferences.

The other options are not correct because:

1. Asking another UAP to help the orientee may not be appropriate or necessary, as it may interfere with the orientation process and create confusion or conflict.
2. Verifying with the client that the bath was complete and thorough may not be sufficient or reliable, as the client may not be able to assess the quality of care or may not want to complain.
3. Inspecting the client's skin near the end of the bathing procedure may not be timely or comprehensive, as it may miss some aspects of care or some problems that occurred during the bath.