The unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) tells the practical nurse (PN) that a resident of the long-term care facility is reporting eye pain and photophobia. The resident is being treated for bacterial conjunctivitis. Upon entering the resident's room, the PN observes that the UAP has darkened the room and placed a warm compress over the resident's eyes. Which action should the PN take?

The correct answer is choice A: Have the client sit down in the hall.

Choice A rationale: The PN should first have the client sit down to help alleviate the client's chest tightness and shortness of breath. Sitting down allows for better lung expansion and reduces the risk of falling due to dizziness or lightheadedness. This is the most appropriate initial action in response to the client's complaint.

Choice B rationale: While assisting the client back to their room is important, the PN should first ensure that the client is sitting down to help manage their symptoms. After the client is seated and more stable, the PN can then assist them back to their room for further assessment and intervention.

Choice C rationale: Administering sublingual nitroglycerin may be appropriate if the client is experiencing cardiac-related chest pain. However, the PN should first have the client sit down and gather more information about their symptoms before administering any medications.

Choice D rationale: Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram can help assess the client's cardiac status, but it is not the first action that the PN should take in this situation. Ensuring the client's safety and managing their symptoms are immediate priorities. The PN can consider obtaining an electrocardiogram after addressing the client's immediate needs and assessing their condition further.

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.