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: Record the findings and report the symptoms to the charge nurse.

Choice A rationale:

The practical nurse (PN) should first record the client's findings, including the progressively decreasing appetite, increased daytime bed hours, and refusal to participate in planned activities. This documentation is essential for accurate communication and continuity of care. After recording the findings, the PN should promptly report the symptoms to the charge nurse. Reporting allows for timely intervention and assessment by the charge nurse or other healthcare providers to address the client's issues effectively.

Choice B rationale:

Asking family members to visit more often is not the best action to take in this situation. While family support is important, the client's symptoms suggest possible underlying health concerns that need professional evaluation and management. Relying solely on increased family visits might delay appropriate healthcare interventions.

Choice C rationale:

Motivating the client by offering their favorite foods as a prize might not be appropriate at this stage. The client's decreased appetite and refusal to participate in activities could be indicators of underlying health issues that need to be addressed first. Moreover, encouraging unhealthy eating habits as a "prize”. could be counterproductive to the client's well-being.

Choice D rationale:

Withholding medications that may cause side effects is not a suitable action without consulting the healthcare provider responsible for the client's care. Abruptly stopping medications could lead to adverse effects or complications, and it is essential to involve the healthcare team in making decisions about medication management.

Choice A rationale:

After administering hydrocodone/acetaminophen for pain, the PN should closely monitor the client for signs of respiratory depression, which may manifest as shallow or slow breathing.

Ongoing assessments are crucial because respiratory depression is a potential adverse effect of opioid medications like hydrocodone. If this complication is detected early, appropriate interventions can be implemented to ensure the client's safety.

Choice B rationale:

Assessing the skin daily for areas of ecchymosis or other signs of bleeding is not directly related to the administration of hydrocodone/acetaminophen. While bruising and bleeding are possible side effects of some medications, this assessment is not the priority in this scenario.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to resume normal activities after medication administration is not appropriate in this situation. Hydrocodone/acetaminophen can cause drowsiness and impairment, so the client should be advised to avoid activities that require alertness or coordination until the effects of the medication are known.

Choice D rationale:

Observing the client for involuntary movements of the lips and tongue is relevant when administering antipsychotic medications, as these movements may be signs of tardive dyskinesia. However, it is not directly related to the use of hydrocodone/acetaminophen. The priority after administering this pain medication is to monitor for respiratory depression, as opioids can affect the respiratory system