A nurse in reviewing the laboratory data on a client who has a new prescription for heparin for treatment of a pulmonary embolism. Which of the following data should the nurse report to the provider?

A. 18: A score of 18 on the Braden Scale indicates that the patient is at low risk for skin breakdown. The Braden Scale scores range from 6 to 23, with lower scores indicating higher risk. A score of 18 or above suggests that the implemented interventions have effectively reduced the risk of skin impairment, making this the best sign that the risk for skin breakdown has been removed.

B. 13: A score of 13 indicates moderate risk for skin breakdown. While this is an improvement from a score of 15, it still shows that the patient remains at risk and requires ongoing monitoring and intervention.

C. 23: A score of 23 indicates very low risk for skin breakdown; however, it is not a feasible score for patients who were initially assessed at 15. Achieving this score would likely suggest an unrealistic improvement in the patient's condition based solely on nursing interventions.

D. 12: A score of 12 indicates a high risk for skin breakdown. This score signifies that the risk has not been effectively addressed, and the patient continues to be vulnerable to skin impairment.

1. "The client is deteriorating, and I'm afraid the client is going to arrest." This statement provides a clear and urgent indication of the client's current status, emphasizing the severity of the situation and the immediate concern for potential cardiac arrest. The nurse’s choice of language conveys a sense of urgency that is crucial for the HCP to understand the need for prompt action. In SBAR format, the order is: Situation (2), Background (4), Assessment (3), and Recommendation (1).

2. "The client is becoming confused and agitated. The skin is pale, mottled, and diaphoretic. The client is very dyspneic with an oxygen saturation of 85% despite placing a nonrebreather mask." This statement elaborates on the clinical findings and symptoms, giving the HCP a better understanding of the patient's condition and how it is affecting their overall stability. The details about the patient's physical state, such as skin condition and oxygen saturation, highlight the critical nature of the situation.

3. "I am calling about (client name and location). Vital signs are BP=100/50, P=120, RR=30, T=100.4°F (38°C)." This provides the background information, including the patient's vital signs, which is critical for the HCP to evaluate the situation. Clear communication of vital signs establishes a baseline for the HCP to assess the urgency of the clinical scenario and informs potential interventions.

4. "I suggest that the client be transferred to the critical care unit, and I would like you to come evaluate the client." This statement summarizes the recommendation, clearly indicating the action the nurse believes should be taken based on the assessment. It conveys the need for immediate evaluation and care in a higher-acuity setting, ensuring that the HCP understands the recommended next steps in the patient’s management.