A nurse is assisting in the care of a group of children on a pediatric medical surgical unit. Which of the following children should the nurse collect data from first?

A. "The client in room 204 received some pain medicine earlier today": This statement is vague and nonspecific, lacking essential information such as the type of pain medication, dose, timing, and client response. Change-of-shift reports require clear, detailed, and actionable information to ensure continuity of care.

B. "The client in room 205 has had several visitors today": Information about visitors is generally not relevant to clinical care unless it impacts the client's condition. Reporting should focus on clinical updates, treatments, medications, or changes in the client’s status that require attention from the incoming nurse.

C. "The client in room 204 has a new prescription for gentamicin": This statement provides important clinical information regarding a change in the medication regimen. It alerts the next nurse to monitor for potential side effects, such as nephrotoxicity or ototoxicity, associated with gentamicin use.

D. "The client in room 203 will undergo surgery at 0900 tomorrow": Communicating scheduled surgeries is critical for planning preoperative care, ensuring that preoperative checklists are completed, and managing fasting requirements. It allows the next shift to prepare the client properly and coordinate care.

E. "The client in room 205 is scheduled for a dressing change at 1800": Including scheduled treatments like dressing changes ensures that important interventions are completed on time. It also helps the incoming nurse prioritize tasks and manage the shift effectively to meet the client’s care needs.

A. "I will ask to have you assigned to a female nurse.": Respecting the client’s preference supports her autonomy, comfort, and dignity. Offering to accommodate her request shows sensitivity to her personal, cultural, or religious needs and helps maintain a trusting nurse-client relationship.

B. "I will get a female assistive personnel to provide your bath.": While providing a female assistive personnel for bathing might address part of the concern, it does not fully meet the client's expressed preference for all aspects of nursing care to be provided by a female nurse.

C. "You will need to speak with the nurse manager about this.": Asking the client to manage the reassignment request herself can seem dismissive. It is the nurse’s responsibility to advocate for the client and initiate steps to meet her needs whenever possible.

D. "I care for other female clients and they do not mind having a male nurse.": Comparing the client’s feelings to those of others invalidates her concerns and does not demonstrate respect for her individual preferences, which is essential in client-centered care.