A charge nurse is observing a staff nurse performing wound irrigation for a client who has a pressure injury. Which of the following actions by the staff nurse indicates an understanding of the procedure?

Choice A Reason:

While it is important to monitor bowel movements, especially since opioids like morphine can cause constipation, this is not the immediate priority. Opioid-induced constipation is a common side effect due to decreased gastrointestinal motility. However, it does not pose an immediate life-threatening risk compared to respiratory depression.

Choice B Reason:

A respiratory rate of 7 breaths per minute is significantly below the normal range for adults, which is typically 12-20 breaths per minute. This indicates severe respiratory depression, a known and potentially fatal side effect of morphine. Immediate intervention is required to ensure the patient’s airway is maintained and to prevent respiratory arrest.

Choice C Reason:

Although the client reporting a pain level of 8 out of 10 indicates that the pain is not adequately controlled, this is not the most urgent concern compared to respiratory depression. Pain management is crucial, but ensuring the patient’s respiratory function takes precedence.

Choice D Reason:

A distended bladder can be a side effect of morphine due to urinary retention. While this needs to be addressed to prevent discomfort and potential complications, it is not as critical as managing a severely low respiratory rate.

Choice A Reason:

A family whose only child recently died due to cancer is experiencing a significant and traumatic loss. This type of loss is categorized as a situational loss because it is unexpected and not part of the normal life cycle. Situational losses are typically sudden and can cause profound grief and disruption in the family’s life. The death of a child is one of the most devastating events a family can endure, leading to intense emotional pain and a long grieving process.

Choice B Reason:

A family whose oldest child is moving away for college is experiencing a maturational loss. Maturational losses are those that occur as part of normal life transitions and developmental stages. These losses are anticipated and expected as individuals grow and progress through different phases of life. The transition of a child moving away for college is a common maturational loss, as it signifies a significant change in the family dynamic and the child’s development into adulthood.

Choice C Reason:

A family whose house was destroyed in a fire is dealing with a situational loss. This type of loss is unexpected and can have a severe impact on the family’s sense of security and stability. The destruction of a home involves not only the loss of physical property but also the emotional attachment and memories associated with the home. Recovering from such a loss requires significant emotional and practical adjustments.

Choice D Reason:

A family whose head of household lost their job is experiencing a situational loss. Job loss can lead to financial instability and stress, affecting the entire family’s well-being. This type of loss is not part of the normal developmental process and can create significant challenges for the family as they navigate the uncertainty and potential changes in their lifestyle.