While changing a client's postoperative dressing, the nurse observes purulent drainage at the site.
Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the nurse should note which of the client's laboratory values?

Choice A rationale:

A bedside commode is positioned near the bed. Positioning a bedside commode near the bed is appropriate for a client with heart failure and COPD who may have mobility issues or difficulty walking to the bathroom. It promotes safety and convenience for the client.

Choice B rationale:

A full pitcher of water is on the bedside table. While it's essential to keep clients with heart failure adequately hydrated, having a full pitcher of water within easy reach might encourage excessive fluid intake, which can exacerbate heart failure symptoms. However, this choice is not an immediate risk requiring intervention.

Choice C rationale:

The client is lying in a supine position in bed. A client with heart failure and COPD should not be lying in a supine position because it can exacerbate respiratory distress and increase the workload of the heart. This is an observation that requires immediate intervention, such as repositioning the client to an upright or semi-fowler's position.

Choice D rationale:

A saline lock is present in the right forearm. The presence of a saline lock is a standard precaution in a hospitalized client and does not require immediate intervention unless there are specific issues with it, such as signs of infection or dislodgement. It does not pose an immediate harm to the client.

Choice E rationale:

A low sodium diet tray was brought to the room. A low sodium diet is crucial for managing heart failure because excessive sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and exacerbate symptoms. Ensuring that the client follows the prescribed diet is essential for their well-being, and any deviations may require immediate intervention.

Choice A rationale:

Prescribing medication for immediate relief is not the primary goal when establishing a therapeutic relationship with a client with anxiety disorder. While medication may be a part of the treatment plan, the primary focus should be on building trust and addressing the client's emotional needs.

Choice B rationale:

Educating the client about various relaxation techniques can be beneficial, but it is not the primary goal of establishing a therapeutic relationship. The primary goal is to create a trusting and supportive environment in which the client feels comfortable discussing their feelings and concerns.

Choice C rationale:

Assisting the client in challenging irrational thoughts is an important aspect of cognitive-behavioral therapy, but it is not the primary goal of establishing the therapeutic relationship. Building rapport and trust come first.

Choice D rationale:

Developing measurable and realistic outcomes is the primary goal when establishing a therapeutic relationship. These outcomes provide a framework for assessing progress and ensuring that the therapeutic interventions are effective in addressing the client's anxiety disorder.