A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client.

Exhibits

A nurse in an outpatient orthopedic clinic is caring for the client six weeks following surgical repair of a fractured radius. Which of the following information provided by the client indicates improvement?

Select all that apply.

The correct answer is D. Remind the client to use the incentive spirometer.

Choice A rationale:

Observing the position of the suspended weight is beyond the scope of practice for assistive personnel (AP). This task requires assessment skills to ensure proper alignment and functioning of the traction system, which is the responsibility of the nurse.

Choice B rationale:

Checking the client’s pedal pulse on the right leg involves assessment and clinical judgment to evaluate perfusion and detect potential complications such as impaired circulation. This is not a task that can be delegated to AP.

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client to describe her pain requires assessment and interpretation of subjective data, which falls under the nurse's scope of practice. Pain assessment is a critical nursing function.

Choice D rationale:

Reminding the client to use the incentive spirometer is a non-assessment task that involves reinforcing previously taught instructions. This is appropriate to delegate to assistive personnel, as it does not require clinical judgment.

Answer is… C and F indicate improvement.

A The client has gained 1.8 kg (4 lb). BMI is 18.9. This is not an improvement because the client’s BMI is still below the normal range of 18.5 to 24.9 The client may have malnutrition or other health problems that affect their weight.

B The clients adult child prepares two meals per day for the client. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client still depends on others for their basic needs and may have difficulty with self-care.

C The clients clothing is clean and appropriate for the weather. This is an improvement because it shows that the client has good hygiene and can dress themselves appropriately.

D The client receives three baths per week from a home care aide. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client still needs assistance with bathing and may have limited mobility or pain.

E The client reports frequent toothaches and lack of dental care. This is not an improvement because it shows that the client has poor oral health and may have infections or other complications.

F The client makes eye contact and smiles when speaking. This is an improvement because it shows that the client has positive mood and social interaction.

: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/distal-radius-fracture- wrist-fracture : https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm.