A community health nurse is visiting an older adult client who recently moved into an assisted living apartment. Which of the following client statements indicates difficulty accepting their transition?

A. Read the medication label twice prior to administration.

This action is crucial to ensure that the nurse correctly identifies the medication and verifies the dosage before administering it to the patient. By double-checking the medication label, the nurse can confirm that they have the right medication, in the correct dose, for the correct patient, and via the correct route. This practice helps prevent medication errors and promotes patient safety.

B. Use one patient identifier prior to medication administration.

Explanation: Using at least one patient identifier, such as the patient's name or date of birth, is a standard safety practice to confirm the patient's identity before administering any medication. This helps ensure that the medication is given to the right patient, reducing the risk of administering medications to the wrong individual.

C. Access the online drug formulary for an unfamiliar medication.

Explanation: While it's essential to be knowledgeable about medications, relying solely on an online drug formulary for unfamiliar medications may not be sufficient for safe administration. Online resources can provide valuable information, but they should supplement, not replace, comprehensive education and understanding of medications. Nurses should have a solid understanding of the medications they administer and consult additional resources as needed.

D. Ask the client if they have ever taken a similar medication.

Explanation: While it's important to gather information from the patient about their medical history and previous experiences with medications, solely relying on the patient's response may not be sufficient for ensuring safe medication administration. Patients may not always accurately recall or provide complete information about their medication history. Nurses should verify medication orders through appropriate channels and rely on documented medical records whenever possible to confirm medication history and suitability for administration.

A. "We can discuss what you can expect during your stay."

This statement acknowledges the client's feelings of anxiety and offers support by indicating a willingness to discuss what they can expect during their stay. Providing information about the facility's routines, procedures, and what to expect can help alleviate anxiety by giving the client a sense of control and understanding. It also opens the door for the client to ask questions and express any concerns they may have.

B. "Most people are scared their first time in a health care facility":

While this statement attempts to normalize the client's feelings by suggesting that it is common to feel scared, it may not effectively address the client's individual concerns or provide reassurance. Additionally, some clients may not find comfort in knowing that others are also scared.

C. "You have nothing to worry about. Everything will be fine":

This statement may come across as dismissive of the client's feelings and does not acknowledge or validate their anxiety. It also makes assumptions about the client's experience and may not be accurate for all clients. Providing blanket reassurances without addressing the client's specific concerns may not be effective in alleviating their anxiety.

D. "Why are you feeling scared about being in this facility?":

While it is important for the nurse to explore the client's feelings and concerns, asking a direct question like this may put pressure on the client to articulate their anxiety without offering immediate support or reassurance. It is better to provide a statement that offers support and opens the door for the client to express their concerns in their own time and comfort level.