A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has pneumonia.

For each potential nursing action, click to specify if the potential action is anticipated or contraindicated for the client.

A) Rubella titer nonimmune: A nonimmune rubella titer indicates that the client is not immune to rubella, which is a common finding in many pregnant women. However, rubella vaccination is not given during pregnancy because the vaccine is a live virus. The client will typically be vaccinated postpartum. Follow-up would be required, but it is not an urgent concern during the pregnancy itself.

B) Negative varicella titer: A negative varicella titer means the client is not immune to chickenpox, which is a concern because varicella can cause serious complications during pregnancy. However, similar to rubella, the varicella vaccine is contraindicated during pregnancy, and vaccination would be given postpartum. This requires follow-up after delivery but does not require urgent intervention during the pregnancy.

C) Positive Rh factor: The Rh factor is a blood type characteristic, but what is typically more concerning is the Rh incompatibility, which occurs when a Rh-negative mother carries a Rh-positive baby. A positive Rh factor is not a problem for the client themselves but could be important if the father is Rh-positive. If there is concern for Rh incompatibility, the nurse would monitor for the development of Rh sensitization and administer Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) if needed. This does not require urgent intervention unless Rh incompatibility is confirmed.

D) Positive serologic test for syphilis: A positive test for syphilis requires immediate follow-up intervention. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious complications during pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and congenital syphilis. Treatment with penicillin is recommended to prevent transmission to the baby and to treat the infection in the mother. A positive serologic test for syphilis warrants prompt intervention.

A) Allow the client to have 1 hour of time alone in their room:
Allowing the client to be alone in their room may not be the best option when they are pacing and wringing their hands, which may indicate anxiety or distress. Rather than isolating them, it is more appropriate to offer support and engage with the client to address the potential underlying anxiety or agitation. Time alone may escalate the feelings of distress rather than provide relief.

B) Use short, simple sentences when speaking with the client:
Using short, simple sentences is an appropriate action when interacting with a client who is pacing and wringing their hands, as this behavior can be indicative of heightened anxiety or agitation. Simple communication reduces confusion and minimizes the cognitive load on the client, helping to keep the interaction clear and calm. It can also help the nurse better assess the client’s feelings and needs in a way that feels less overwhelming to the client.

C) Ask the client if they would like to watch television:
While offering the option of watching television could be an attempt to distract or comfort the client, it does not directly address the potential underlying anxiety or distress the client may be experiencing. It is important to first assess and manage the client’s emotional state before offering distractions like television, which may not effectively address the root of the issue.

D) Move the client to a table where other clients are playing cards:
Moving the client to a group activity may not be the best approach in this situation. The client is demonstrating signs of anxiety or agitation, and suddenly introducing them to a group environment might be overwhelming and could increase their distress. It is more appropriate to first engage the client in a calm, one-on-one interaction using simple communication, and then consider group activities if the client appears ready for them.