While the nurse is preparing a scheduled IV medication, the client states that the IV site hurts and refuses to allow the nurse to administer a flush to assess the site. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

Choice A: Advise the UAP to resume positioning the client on schedule.

Reason: Turning the client from side to side is a critical nursing intervention to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers, pneumonia, and other issues related to immobility. Even though the client has a “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) order, it does not mean that comfort and preventive care measures should be stopped. The nurse should advise the UAP to continue with the scheduled positioning to ensure the client’s comfort and prevent further complications.

Choice B: Encourage the UAP to provide comfort care measures only.

Reason: While providing comfort care is essential, it does not mean that other necessary interventions, such as turning the client, should be neglected. Comfort care measures should include turning the client to prevent pressure ulcers and other complications. Therefore, this option is not the best choice as it may lead to neglecting important preventive care.

Choice C: Assume total care of the client to monitor neurologic function.

Reason: Assuming total care of the client is not practical and may not be necessary. The nurse should delegate tasks appropriately and ensure that the UAP is performing their duties correctly. Monitoring neurologic function is important, but it does not require the nurse to take over all aspects of the client’s care.

Choice D: Assign a practical nurse to assist the UAP in turning the client.

Reason: While assigning a practical nurse to assist the UAP might be helpful, it is not necessary if the UAP can resume the scheduled positioning on their own. The nurse should first advise the UAP to continue with the scheduled positioning before considering additional assistance.

Choice A reason: Eating high-protein foods to achieve ideal body weight is generally a healthy practice, but it is not directly related to the management of the client's current condition involving pain in the toe.

Choice B reason: Patients with gouty arthritis should avoid acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) as it can lead to an increase in uric acid levels, potentially exacerbating gout attacks. Instead, medications that do not affect uric acid levels should be used for pain relief.

Choice C reason: Wrapping joints with an elastic bandage can provide support and reduce swelling, but it is not the primary intervention for sudden pain in the toe following an appendectomy, especially when the patient has a history of gouty arthritis.

Choice D reason: Supporting joints in an extended position while resting can provide comfort and may prevent stiffness, but it does not address the acute management of gouty arthritis or diabetic complications that could be causing toe pain.