The practical nurse (PN) observes an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) performing oral hygiene on an unconscious client who is lying in a flat side-lying position with an emesis basin on a towel under the chin. Which action should the PN take?

The correct answer is choice C. Assign the remainder of medication administration to another PN who is performing treatments.

Choice A rationale:

Asking unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to give medications to their assigned residents is not the best action to take in this situation. Medication administration requires a certain level of training and knowledge to ensure safe and accurate delivery. UAPs may not have the appropriate training and legal authorization to administer medications, which could lead to potential errors and harm to the residents.

Choice B rationale:

Documenting why all the medications were not given to each resident is not sufficient to address the issue at hand. While documentation is essential for record-keeping and communication, it does not resolve the problem of medication administration being left incomplete. The priority should be finding a qualified person to administer the remaining medications.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct answer because assigning the remainder of medication administration to another PN who is performing treatments ensures that qualified and trained personnel are handling the medication administration. This PN is likely familiar with medication protocols and safety measures, reducing the risk of errors.

Choice D rationale:

Denying the medication aide's request to leave before all medications are given might not be practical if the aide is genuinely unwell or unable to continue working safely. The focus should be on ensuring that medication administration is completed by qualified staff rather than forcing the sick aide to stay.

The correct answer is choice D: Provide fluid and electrolyte replacement. Choice A rationale:

Isolating all infectious diarrhea victims is not the highest priority in this situation. While it is essential to prevent the spread of cholera, immediate medical intervention to treat those affected takes precedence.

Choice B rationale:

Administering prophylactic antibiotics as prescribed is not the highest priority because it focuses on prevention rather than treatment. In the case of a cholera outbreak, it is more critical to address the immediate needs of those already diagnosed.

Choice C rationale:

Administering cholera vaccines may be part of a preventive strategy, but it is not the highest priority during an active cholera outbreak. Vaccination takes time to develop immunity, and the focus should be on treating those already affected.

Choice D rationale:

Providing fluid and electrolyte replacement is the highest priority in managing cholera. Cholera is characterized by severe diarrhea and dehydration, which can lead to life-threatening complications. Promptly restoring fluids and electrolytes helps prevent shock and organ failure.