A nurse is admitting an older adult client who is transferring from another facility.
The nurse notes pressure ulcers on the client's coccyx and abrasions around both wrists.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take to address suspicions of elder abuse?

 

Choice A rationale:

(Correct Choice) Checking the expiration date on the safety inspection sticker of the pump is essential to ensure the equipment is functioning properly and safely. Using expired equipment can compromise the client's safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.

Choice B rationale:

Verifying that the extension cord for the pump is ungrounded is important for electrical safety. However, it is not the nurse's responsibility to do this. This action should be performed by a qualified electrician or facility maintenance personnel.

Choice C rationale:

Reporting the pump with a frayed cord is essential. However, it is not safe to proceed with the infusion in this situation. Using damaged equipment can lead to electrical hazards and compromise the client's safety.

Choice D rationale:

Obtaining a surge protector is important for protecting the pump and other electrical appliances from power surges. While this is a good practice, it is not the first action the nurse should take when preparing to initiate intravenous fluids.

Choice A rationale:

After a total gastrectomy, the client lacks the intrinsic factor necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the terminal ileum. Therefore, vitamin B12 supplementation is essential to prevent pernicious anemia, a condition caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. The absence of intrinsic factor hinders the absorption of vitamin B12 from dietary sources, making it necessary to provide this vitamin through injections or high-dose oral supplements. Vitamin B12 supplementation is a standard practice following a total gastrectomy.

Choice B rationale:

Ranitidine is a histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonist used to reduce stomach acid production. It is not directly related to vitamin B12 deficiency and is not typically prescribed following a total gastrectomy. Vitamin B12 supplementation, on the other hand, addresses the specific deficiency caused by the absence of intrinsic factor.

Choice C rationale:

Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health. However, it is not the primary concern following a total gastrectomy. Vitamin B12 deficiency leading to pernicious anemia is the major focus of post-gastrectomy supplementation. While vitamin K may be important for overall health, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Metoclopramide is a medication used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, including gastroparesis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It does not directly address the vitamin B12 deficiency resulting from the absence of intrinsic factor. Vitamin B12 supplementation is specifically indicated to prevent pernicious anemia in this context.