Which intervention is the most important for the practical nurse (PN) to implement when applying an ice pack to a client?

Explanation: In this scenario, the sudden regurgitation and cyanosis in a 24-hour-old infant indicate a potential airway obstruction or compromise. The immediate priority is to clear the airway and ensure adequate ventilation.

Suctioning the oral and nasal passages helps remove any potential obstruction or mucus that may be causing the cyanosis. This intervention aims to restore normal airflow and prevent further respiratory distress in the infant.

Let's briefly evaluate the other options:

A) Turn the infant onto the right side.

Positioning the infant on the right side does not directly address the potential airway obstruction or cyanosis. While positioning may have some benefit in certain situations, such as facilitating drainage, it is not the most appropriate immediate intervention in this case.

C. Give oxygen by positive pressure.

Administering oxygen by positive pressure may be necessary if the infant's oxygen saturation remains low after suctioning and clearing the airway. However, suctioning should be the initial intervention to address any potential airway obstruction or mucus before considering oxygen administration.

D.Stimulate the infant to cry.

Stimulating the infant to cry is not the appropriate intervention in this case. It does not directly address the potential airway obstruction or cyanosis. Crying requires a patent airway, and if the infant is already cyanotic, it suggests an obstruction or inadequate ventilation. Therefore, suctioning and clearing the airway takes precedence over stimulating the infant to cry.

In summary, when a full-term, 24-hour-old infant in the nursery regurgitates and suddenly turns cyanotic, the practical nurse should immediately suction the oral and nasal passages to clear any potential airway obstruction or mucus. This intervention aims to restore normal airflow and ensure adequate ventilation for the infant.

A. Using a cushion when sitting may provide comfort, but it does not directly address the client's elevated blood pressure or changes in mental status related to chronic kidney disease (CKD).
B. Weighing every morning is crucial in managing CKD, particularly with elevated blood pressure, as it helps monitor fluid retention, which can indicate worsening kidney function or fluid overload. This intervention is essential for assessing the client's condition and adjusting treatment as needed.
C. Performing range of motion exercises is important for maintaining mobility, especially in an immobile client; however, it does not directly address the pressing issues of elevated blood pressure and altered mental status.
D. Documenting abdominal girth can be important for assessing fluid retention, but it is less immediate than daily weight monitoring for a client with CKD showing significant symptoms.