A nurse is assisting in the care of an older adult client who was admitted from a long-term care facility.

Admission Assessment 1400:

Client's history includes cigarette smoking for 50 years but quit 3 years ago, Parkinson's disease, and anxiety. Yesterday, client reported "feeling bad." Client is alert and oriented to self, reports upper chest discomfort, and is coughing up thick clear sputum.

Select the 3 findings that require immediate follow-up.

• A. Incorrect. Obtaining capillary blood glucose level every 2 hr is appropriate for a client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus, but it does not address the ankle injury.
• B. Incorrect. Checking the neurovascular status of the client's lower extremities every hour is important for a client who has an ankle injury, but it does not require clarification with the provider.
• C. Correct. Applying a cold pack to the client's ankle for 30 min every hour can reduce swelling and inflammation, but it can also impair circulation and increase the risk of tissue damage in a client who has diabetes mellitus. Therefore, the nurse should clarify this prescription with the provider before implementing it.
• D. Incorrect. Maintaining the affected ankle elevated and immobilized can help prevent further injury and promote healing, but it does not require clarification with the provider.

Choice A rationale:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is recommended for adolescents and young adults to prevent HPV-related cancers and diseases. However, in the context of older adults, especially those who are not previously vaccinated, the priority shifts to other immunizations that are more relevant to their age group.

Choice B rationale:

Rotavirus vaccination is administered to infants to protect against rotavirus infections, which can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. It is not a priority immunization for older adults. Older adults are at higher risk for certain diseases, and their immunization focus should be on vaccines that prevent those specific conditions.

Choice C rationale:

Diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (DTaP) vaccination is essential for children and adults, especially for those who have not received a complete series of vaccinations. However, the question specifies older adults, and DTaP is typically administered to children. While it is crucial for healthcare providers and family members to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations, other immunizations are more pertinent for older adults.

Choice D rationale:

Herpes zoster vaccination (shingles vaccine) is recommended for adults aged 50 years and older. Herpes zoster is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. Older adults are at higher risk of developing shingles, and vaccination can reduce the likelihood of the disease and its complications. Therefore, the nurse should recommend the herpes zoster vaccine to the group of older adults as it aligns with their age and addresses a specific health risk they face.