A nurse in the PACU is caring for a client who has a temperature of 40° C (104° F) and received succinylcholine during surgery. Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer to decrease body temperature?

Choice A reason: Reaching an appropriate body weight is a long-term goal, not a short-term one. Clients with anorexia nervosa require gradual weight restoration to avoid complications such as refeeding syndrome. Setting this as a short-term goal is unrealistic and potentially unsafe.

Choice B reason: Gaining 2 to 3 lb weekly is the correct short-term goal because it is measurable, realistic, and safe. This gradual increase helps stabilize the client’s nutritional status while minimizing medical risks. It also provides a tangible benchmark for progress during inpatient treatment.

Choice C reason: Verbalizing a realistic body image is important but represents a long-term psychosocial goal. Distorted body image is a core feature of anorexia nervosa and requires extended therapy and counseling. It cannot be expected as a short-term outcome during initial hospitalization.

Choice D reason: Developing a personalized meal plan is a collaborative long-term strategy involving dietitians and therapists. While important, it is not the immediate short-term focus. The priority is safe, gradual weight gain.

Choice A reason: Informing the client of available community resources is important for long-term support, but it is not the immediate priority. Before resources can be effectively utilized, the nurse must assess the client’s understanding of their diagnosis and situation. Without this foundation, resource planning may not align with the client’s needs.

Choice B reason: Assisting with child care options is a supportive intervention, but it is not the priority during the initial assessment. Child care planning comes after understanding the client’s perception of their illness and establishing care goals.

Choice C reason: Agreeing upon short-term goals is valuable for care planning, but it requires that the nurse first assess the client’s knowledge and understanding of their diagnosis. Without this, goals may not be realistic or meaningful to the client.

Choice D reason: Asking the client about their understanding of the diagnosis is the priority because it establishes a baseline for communication and care planning. It ensures that the nurse can provide education, clarify misconceptions, and tailor interventions appropriately. This step is essential before moving forward with resources or goal setting, making it the correct answer.