A charge nurse is completing client care assignments. Which of the following assignments is appropriate for a licensed practical nurse?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because this action is not the nurse's responsibility. Coordinating the team and the plan of care is the role of the case manager or the social worker, who can facilitate communication and collaboration among the different disciplines involved in the client's care.

Choice B reason: This is not the correct choice because this action is not the nurse's responsibility. Ordering durable medical equipment for the client's home is the role of the occupational therapist or the physical therapist, who can assess the client's functional needs and abilities and recommend the appropriate devices.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct choice because this action is not the nurse's responsibility. Helping the client obtain financial assistance is the role of the social worker or the financial counselor, who can identify the client's eligibility and options for funding and insurance coverage.

Choice D reason: This is the correct choice because this action is the nurse's responsibility. Performing a dietary assessment is part of the nursing process and the scope of practice of the nurse, who can evaluate the client's nutritional status and needs and provide education and counseling on diet modifications and interventions.

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because low pain tolerance is not the most urgent issue to address. The client may experience some pain and discomfort after the surgery, but this can be managed with medication and non-pharmacological interventions. The nurse should educate the client on how to use pain scales, request pain relief, and apply ice packs or heat pads as needed.

Choice B reason: This is not the correct choice because decreased self-esteem is not the most urgent issue to address. The client may have some negative feelings about their appearance or abilities after the surgery, but this can be improved with counseling and support groups. The nurse should encourage the client to express their emotions, focus on their strengths, and seek professional help if necessary.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct choice because limited social support is not the most urgent issue to address. The client may have difficulty coping with the recovery process and the lifestyle changes required after the surgery, but this can be alleviated with community resources and referrals. The nurse should assess the client's social network, provide information on local agencies and organizations, and arrange for home health care or visiting nurses if needed.

Choice D reason: This is the correct choice because inadequate food supply is the most urgent issue to address. The client needs to have access to nutritious and balanced meals to promote healing and prevent complications after the surgery. The nurse should evaluate the client's food security, provide food vouchers or coupons, and connect the client with food banks or meal delivery services.