A nurse is caring for a client.

Exhibits

A nurse is continuing care for the client.

For each potential nursing action, click to specify if the nursing action is anticipated or contraindicated for the client. There must be at least 1 selection in every row. There does not need to be a selection in every column.

A. Exclude nutritional supplements from the list of medications the client reports: Incorrect. Nutritional supplements are medications and should be included in the medication reconciliation process.

B. Encourage the client to make his own list after he returns to his home: Incorrect. The nurse should be responsible for gathering the complete medication history upon admission, not relying on the client’s list from home.

C. Compare new prescriptions with the list of medications the client reports: This is the correct step in medication reconciliation. The nurse needs to ensure that new medications are compatible with the client's current medications and review any changes.

D. Include any adverse effects of the medications the client might develop: Incorrect. Adverse effects are not part of the medication reconciliation process; the focus is on identifying all current medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.

A. Obtain a serum WBC count: A WBC count will help assess for infection, as the client presents with fever, confusion, and urinary symptoms. Elevated WBC could suggest a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other infection.
B. Insert indwelling urinary catheter: An indwelling catheter is not immediately necessary unless the client is unable to void or requires continuous monitoring. Non-invasive methods like obtaining a urine sample for analysis would be a priority.
C. Make the client NPO: There is no indication that the client requires NPO status at this time. Unless surgery or another procedure is planned, this is not necessary.
D. Initiate antibiotic therapy: Given the client's symptoms (fever, confusion, urinary frequency, urgency, and dark urine), a UTI or other infection is likely. Antibiotics are needed to treat the suspected infection.
E. Obtain a consent for surgery: There is no indication that surgery is needed based on the current clinical information. The primary concern is infection, not surgical intervention.
F. Withhold metoprolol: While metoprolol may lower blood pressure, there is no indication to withhold it at this time. The client’s blood pressure is already low, and withholding this medication could worsen hypotension. Any changes in the medication regimen should be made based on further evaluation by the provider.
G. Administer acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is indicated to help reduce the client's fever (39.3°C/102.7°F). Managing the fever will help improve comfort and prevent complications like delirium.
H. Collect urine for urinalysis and culture and sensitivity: Urine analysis and culture will help confirm the presence of a UTI, identify the causative pathogen, and guide appropriate antibiotic therapy.
I. Obtain chest x-ray: A chest x-ray is not necessary unless there is a suspicion of a respiratory infection, such as pneumonia. The symptoms are more consistent with a UTI or systemic infection, so a chest x-ray is not a priority.