A nurse is caring for a client who has acute pancreatitis. After treating the client’s pain, which of the following should the nurse address as the priority intervention?

Choice A reason: A client who had a stroke and is to be admitted

Assigning a client who had a stroke and is to be admitted might not be the best choice for an RN floated from the maternal-newborn unit. Stroke patients often require specialized neurological assessments and interventions that the RN might not be familiar with. Additionally, the initial admission process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring familiarity with the specific protocols and procedures of the medical-surgical unit.

Choice B reason: A client who is one-day postoperative following a total abdominal hysterectomy

This is the most appropriate assignment for the RN floated from the maternal-newborn unit. The RN is likely to be familiar with postoperative care, especially related to abdominal surgeries, given their experience in the maternal-newborn unit. Postoperative care involves monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and ensuring proper wound care, all of which are within the RN’s skill set. This familiarity can help ensure the client receives competent and safe care.

Choice C reason: A client who has acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis can be a complex condition requiring specialized knowledge of gastrointestinal issues and potential complications such as fluid and electrolyte imbalances, respiratory issues, and severe pain management. The RN from the maternal-newborn unit may not have the specific expertise needed to manage these complexities effectively.

Choice D reason: A client who has terminal end-stage renal disease

Caring for a client with terminal end-stage renal disease involves managing complex chronic conditions, including fluid balance, electrolyte management, and possibly dialysis. This requires specialized knowledge and skills that the RN from the maternal-newborn unit might not possess. Additionally, end-of-life care requires a specific set of competencies and experience that might not be within the RN’s usual scope of practice.

Step 1: Convert the child’s weight from pounds to kilograms.

• Weight in pounds = 28 lb
• Conversion factor = 1 kg ÷ 2.2 lb
• Weight in kilograms = 28 lb ÷ 2.2
• Result: 12.727 kg (rounded to three decimal places)

Step 2: Calculate the dose of acetaminophen in mg.

• Dose required = 10 mg × Weight in kg
• Dose required = 10 mg × 12.727 kg
• Result: 127.27 mg (rounded to two decimal places)

Step 3: Determine the volume of acetaminophen solution needed in mL.

• Concentration of acetaminophen = 120 mg ÷ 5 mL
• Volume required (mL) = Dose required (mg) ÷ Concentration (mg/mL)
• Volume required (mL) = 127.27 mg ÷ (120 mg ÷ 5 mL)
• Result: 127.27 mg ÷ 24 mg/mL
• Result: 5.303 mL (rounded to three decimal places)

Step 4: Round the volume to the nearest tenth.

• Rounded result: 5.3 mL

Final Answer: The nurse should administer 5.3 mL of acetaminophen.