A charge nurse is assessing the room of a newly admitted client who has dysphagia. Which of the following pieces of equipment should the nurse ensure is available in the client's room?

A. The facility ethics committee can provide guidance and recommendations, but they do not have the authority to override a competent client's decision regarding their own medical treatment. Their role is advisory rather than decisive.

B. While a client's refusal based on religious beliefs must be respected, it is not the primary deciding factor in this scenario. The key issue is the client's understanding and informed consent, regardless of the reason for refusal.

C. If the partner is the client's durable power of attorney for health care, they can make decisions on behalf of the client only if the client is deemed incompetent. In this case, the client is competent and has made their own decision.

D. The client's understanding of the risks associated with refusing the procedure is crucial. Informed consent requires that the client comprehends the potential consequences of their decision, ensuring that their refusal is based on a clear understanding of the risks involved.

A. A client who has peripheral vascular disease and has an absent pedal pulse in the right foot is the highest priority. An absent pedal pulse indicates potential arterial occlusion, which could lead to tissue ischemia and necrosis if not addressed promptly. This situation is critical and requires immediate intervention to restore circulation and prevent permanent damage.

B. A client who has methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and has an axillary temperature of 38°C (101°F) is not the highest priority. A mild fever in a client with MRSA indicates infection, but it is not immediately life-threatening. This client needs monitoring and possible adjustment of antibiotics, but the situation does not require urgent intervention.

C. A client who is postoperative following a laminectomy 12 hr ago and is unable to void is concerning, as it could indicate a complication such as urinary retention or spinal nerve damage. However, it is not immediately life-threatening and can be addressed after the more critical issue of a potential arterial occlusion in the client with peripheral vascular disease

D. A client who is newly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and is scheduled to begin IV chemotherapy: While this client's diagnosis and treatment plan are significant, they may not require immediate intervention compared to the potential complications of urinary retention in the postoperative client.