A charge nurse is speaking with the partner of a client. The partner states that the client is not receiving adequate care. Which of the following actions should the charge nurse take first to resolve the situation?

Choice A rationale:

Assisted living facilities are suitable for individuals who need assistance with activities of daily living but do not require skilled nursing care. This option might not be necessary based on the partner's exhaustion alone.

Choice B rationale:

Respite care provides temporary relief to caregivers, allowing them to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Given the partner's exhaustion, respite care would offer the much-needed rest, reducing caregiver burnout and ensuring better care for the client at home.

Choice C rationale:

Rehabilitation services are designed for patients who need specialized therapy after an illness or injury. While they might be beneficial for the client following a stroke, they do not directly address the partner's exhaustion and need for relief.

Choice D rationale:

Skilled nursing facilities provide 24/7 medical care for individuals with complex medical needs. The partner's exhaustion does not necessarily indicate the need for skilled nursing care, as the client's condition and care requirements were not provided in the scenario.

Choice A rationale:

Repositioning the NG tube is not the appropriate action for hyperosmolar dehydration. This condition occurs due to an excessive concentration of solutes in the body, leading to a decrease in intracellular water. Repositioning the tube would not address the hyperosmolarity issue.

Choice B rationale:

Increasing the rate of formula delivery may exacerbate the problem by introducing more concentrated formula into the client's system, worsening hyperosmolarity. This choice can lead to further dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Choice C rationale:

Adding water to the formula is the correct action in this scenario. Hyperosmolar dehydration requires dilution of the concentrated formula to reduce the osmolarity. By adding water to the formula, the nurse can decrease the concentration of solutes, helping to rehydrate the client effectively.

Choice D rationale:

Switching to a lactose-free formula is not the appropriate intervention for hyperosmolar dehydration. The issue lies in the concentration of the formula, not in its lactose content. Adding water is the more suitable and direct approach to address the problem.