A nurse is caring for a client who is incontinent of urine. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. "You need to talk to a therapist about how you're feeling.": Referring to a therapist may be appropriate later if needed, but this response does not validate the client’s feelings or provide immediate emotional support. It may also make the client feel dismissed.

B. "Wouldn't worry about it if I were you. You'll be a good mother.": This response minimizes the client’s feelings and provides reassurance rather than acknowledging their ambivalence. Minimization can inhibit open communication and does not promote therapeutic rapport.

C. "Why do you feel that way if you've been trying to get pregnant?": Asking "why" can come across as judgmental or confrontational and may make the client defensive. It does not provide support or normalize the experience of mixed emotions.

D. "Many women experience feelings of ambivalence during pregnancy.": This response normalizes the client’s feelings, validating their experience without judgment. It encourages open discussion and helps the client feel understood, which is a key aspect of therapeutic communication.

A. Admission vital signs: While admission vital signs are part of the client’s history, they are not usually relevant for change-of-shift reporting unless there has been a trend or abnormal finding that impacts current care. Reporting outdated vitals does not inform immediate clinical decisions.

B. Steps required for dressing change: Detailed procedural steps are not typically included in shift reports. The report should focus on current status, recent changes, and ongoing care needs rather than teaching or step-by-step instructions.

C. Time of last pain medication: Reporting the time of the last analgesic dose is important for continuity of care. It helps the incoming nurse assess pain control, schedule subsequent doses, and anticipate the client’s comfort needs.

D. Preferred bath time: While client preferences are helpful for planning care, they are not critical information for clinical decision-making during a shift report. This detail can be communicated during routine care rather than formal handoff.