A charge nurse is leading a committee that is revising the policy for client discharge. After developing the initial plan, which of the following actions should the nurse take next?

Choice A rationale:

A client who has a penetrating head injury and a respiratory rate of 4/min requires immediate attention due to the critical nature of the head injury and the dangerously low respiratory rate. However, in an emergency situation like this, the priority would be a condition that could be rapidly fatal if not addressed promptly.

Choice B rationale:

A client with a comminuted fracture of the femur has a serious injury that requires assessment and treatment, but it is not an immediately life-threatening condition. It falls lower in the priority compared to conditions that directly impact respiratory and cardiovascular function.

Choice C rationale:

A client with a 15.2-cm laceration to the scalp with clotted blood visible also requires attention, but it is not as time-sensitive as a life-threatening condition. Controlling bleeding and cleaning the wound can be addressed after addressing more critical cases.

Choice D rationale:

Correct. A client with a sucking chest wound has a high risk of tension pneumothorax, a condition where air accumulates in the pleural space, leading to lung collapse and compromised circulation. This condition can be rapidly fatal. Immediate intervention is required to seal the wound and prevent further air from entering the pleural space.

Choice A rationale:

Child Protective Services would not be the appropriate agency to refer the guardian of the newborn who requires apnea monitoring at home. Child Protective Services deals with child abuse, neglect, and welfare concerns, which are not related to the specific medical needs of the newborn.

Choice B rationale:

Public Health is the correct choice. Public Health agencies are responsible for promoting and protecting the health of the community. They often provide services such as education, vaccinations, and resources for newborn care. Referring the guardian to Public Health can ensure that they receive appropriate guidance on how to manage the newborn's apnea monitoring needs at home and any other relevant health-related information.

Choice C rationale:

Home Health is not the most suitable agency in this context. Home Health agencies generally provide healthcare services directly in patients' homes, often for individuals who require medical assistance or supervision due to illnesses or post-surgical care. However, for a newborn requiring apnea monitoring, the focus is more on education and support rather than direct medical care.

Choice D rationale:

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is not the appropriate agency for referring the guardian of the newborn needing apnea monitoring. WIC is a program that provides supplemental nutrition and support to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and young children. While it is important for the overall health of the newborn, it is not directly related to apnea monitoring or home care.