A nurse is caring for a client and using active listening skills. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Explanation:

A. Encourage family members to call the client: This option focuses on utilizing the client's existing support system, particularly family members, to maintain communication and emotional connection. Regular phone calls from family members can provide comfort, reassurance, and a sense of belonging, all of which are crucial in reducing social isolation, especially during end-of-life care.

B. Instruct the client to join an online support group: This option suggests using technology to connect the client with others who may be going through similar experiences. Online support groups can offer valuable emotional support and a sense of community. However, this approach may not be suitable for all clients, especially if they are not comfortable or familiar with online platforms, or if they prefer face-to-face interactions.

C. Schedule home visits with the client: This option emphasizes personal, one-on-one interaction by scheduling regular home visits. Home visits allow healthcare providers, family members, and other supportive individuals to be physically present with the client, providing not only emotional support but also addressing any physical or comfort needs the client may have.

D. Ask the client's friends to text the client: Texting is a convenient and quick way to communicate, but it may lack the depth of connection provided by voice calls or in-person interactions. While texting can be an additional method of staying in touch, especially for quick updates or reminders, it may not be sufficient on its own to reduce social isolation significantly.

Explanation:

A. Arrange referral for family therapy to deal with home stressors:

While family therapy may be beneficial for addressing home stressors, it is not the first step when there is a suspicion of physical abuse. The priority in cases of suspected abuse is to ensure the client's safety and to report the suspicion to the appropriate authorities.

B. Follow the agency's guidelines for reporting suspected abuse:

This is the correct action to take first. Nurses are mandated reporters, and they must follow their agency's protocols and legal requirements for reporting suspected abuse. Reporting ensures that the client's situation is investigated promptly, and appropriate interventions are implemented to protect the client.

C. Check the bruises at the next visit to the client's home:

Delaying action and waiting until the next visit to check the bruises is not appropriate in cases of suspected abuse. Immediate action is necessary to address the safety of the client. Suspected abuse should be reported promptly to the relevant authorities for investigation.

D. Institute more frequent visits to the client's home:

Increasing the frequency of visits may not address the immediate safety concerns of the client if abuse is suspected. While increased monitoring may be necessary in certain situations, reporting the suspicion of abuse and initiating appropriate interventions should take precedence.