A nurse is caring for a client who has been prescribed parenteral lidocaine. Before administering the medication, the nurse should review the medical record for which condition?

Choice A reason: Pouring warm water over the perineal area can stimulate the micturition reflex, which may help the client void. It is a non-invasive, first-line intervention to promote natural voiding in clients with urinary incontinence. The nurse should evaluate its effectiveness as it can be a simple yet effective method to assist the client.

Choice B reason: While recommending a complete bath may help maintain hygiene, it does not directly address the immediate need to stimulate voiding. The nurse's priority is to manage the incontinence issue effectively and a bath can be considered after addressing the client's immediate needs.

Choice C reason: Suggesting catheter insertion may be premature without first attempting less invasive measures. Catheterization carries risks such as infection and should be considered only when other interventions are ineffective or not feasible.

Choice D reason: There is no evidence to suggest that pouring warm water over the perineal area promotes infection in elderly females. In fact, proper perineal care is essential in preventing infections, especially in clients with incontinence.

Choice A reason: Applying sequential compression stockings when in bed is a recommended postoperative intervention for bariatric surgery patients. It helps prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by promoting venous return and reducing venous stasis, which is particularly important in patients with obesity due to their increased risk for DVT.
Choice B reason: Maintaining strict bedrest for 12 hours after surgery is not typically recommended as it can increase the risk of complications such as DVT and pulmonary embolism. Early mobilization is generally encouraged to promote circulation and respiratory function.
Choice C reason: Providing chilled beverages is not a specific nursing intervention indicated in the immediate postoperative period for bariatric surgery patients. Fluid intake should be carefully monitored and regulated, but the temperature of the beverages is not a primary concern.
Choice D reason: Changing position frequently is an important postoperative intervention to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and to promote lung expansion, especially in patients with obesity who are at higher risk for these issues.
Choice E reason: Encouraging coughing and deep breathing is essential after bariatric surgery to help clear the airways, prevent atelectasis, and improve oxygenation. This is particularly important for this patient who has a history of sleep apnea and reported diminished breath sounds postoperatively.
Choice F reason: Observing for signs and symptoms of dumping syndrome is relevant for bariatric surgery patients, as this syndrome can occur when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine. However, this is more of a long-term concern rather than an immediate postoperative intervention.
Choice G reason: Keeping the client NPO (nothing by mouth) is a common immediate postoperative order, but as the patient progresses, they will be started on a liquid diet and advanced as tolerated. Therefore, it is not a nursing intervention that would be indicated indefinitely.
Choice H reason: Maintaining the head at a 45-degree angle can help improve respiratory function by reducing pressure on the diaphragm, which is especially beneficial for patients with obesity and a history of sleep apnea, as in this case.