A nurse and a newly licensed nurse are discussing effective communication techniques for a client who has expressive aphasia. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicate understanding of the teaching?

A. Tell the client, "You seem to be very upset.": Using verbal de-escalation and acknowledging the client’s emotions can help reduce agitation. This approach demonstrates empathy, promotes communication, and can prevent escalation.

B. Use a face shield with a mask when providing care to the client: Personal protective equipment is important for infection control, but it does not address the behavioral escalation or help calm an agitated client.

C. Initiate seclusion protocol: Seclusion is a restrictive intervention used only if the client poses an imminent risk of harm. It is not the first step in managing agitation and should follow attempts at de-escalation.

D. Engage the panic alarm: Activating the panic alarm is appropriate in situations of immediate danger, but for verbal agitation and pacing without aggression, de-escalation is the first intervention.

Rationale for correct choices:

• Obtain IV access: The client has hypotension (BP 90/50 mm Hg), tachycardia (HR 118/min), and significant anemia (Hgb 9.1 g/dL, Hct 27%), all of which suggest possible active gastrointestinal bleeding. Establishing IV access is a priority to allow rapid fluid resuscitation or blood product administration as needed.
• Prepare for a blood transfusion: Given the positive hemoccult stool, anemia, and vital sign changes, the client may require a blood transfusion to restore hemodynamic stability and oxygen-carrying capacity. Preparing for transfusion ensures timely intervention in case of worsening blood loss.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Call the surgical suite to notify that the client is arriving STAT: While the client is scheduled for endoscopy, immediate stabilization takes priority over notifying the surgical suite. The client’s hemodynamic status must be addressed first to prevent deterioration.
• Recheck the client's oxygen saturation: The client’s oxygen saturation is 98% on room air, which is within normal limits. Rechecking is not immediately necessary and does not address the urgent need for stabilization.
• Place the client in a supine position with feet elevated: Although elevating the feet can help improve perfusion temporarily, it does not treat the underlying anemia or hypotension and is less urgent than establishing IV access and preparing for transfusion.
• Offer oral fluids: Oral intake is contraindicated in a client at risk for endoscopy and possible GI bleeding. Fluids could increase the risk of aspiration and do not address hemodynamic instability.
• Administer PRN antacids: Antacids may provide minor symptom relief but do not treat active blood loss or stabilize the client before endoscopy.
• Document vital signs: Documentation is important but secondary to immediate interventions that address the client’s hypotension and potential hemorrhage.