A nurse is caring for a toddler who has impetigo. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale:

A. "I will place a night light in the hallway near the bathroom.": Installing night lights in commonly used paths, such as the hallway to the bathroom, helps prevent falls by improving visibility during nighttime trips, which is especially important for older adults with limited vision or balance.

B. "I will use a standard height toilet seat.": Standard height toilet seats can make sitting and standing more difficult for older adults. Raised toilet seats are safer and reduce the risk of falls by minimizing the effort required to use the toilet.

C. "I will set my water heater to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.": This temperature is too high and increases the risk of scald injuries. Water heaters should be set to no more than 120°F to protect older adults from accidental burns, as their skin is often thinner and more sensitive.

D. "I will cover extension cords with throw rugs.": Covering cords with rugs creates a tripping hazard. Extension cords should be secured against walls or removed altogether to reduce fall risk, especially in homes with elderly residents.

Rationale:

 • Obtain IV access is the first priority because the client is showing signs of hypovolemic shock low blood pressure (76/45 mm Hg), tachycardia (HR 121/min), pale mucous membranes, and diaphoresis likely due to GI bleeding. Immediate vascular access is necessary for resuscitation and fluid administration.

 • Call the surgical suite to notify that the client is arriving STAT would delay essential stabilization. Transporting an unstable client without securing IV access and fluid resuscitation could worsen their condition and is unsafe.

 • Place the client in a supine position with feet elevated (modified Trendelenburg) might temporarily improve venous return, but it does not address the underlying fluid deficit. It is not a substitute for urgent fluid replacement via IV access.

 • Recheck the client's oxygen saturation is not a priority because the client already has a stable oxygen saturation of 98% on room air. The immediate threat is circulatory collapse, not hypoxia.

 • Prepare to administer IV fluids follows IV access to treat hypotension and restore circulating volume. IV fluids help stabilize hemodynamics while awaiting further interventions like endoscopy or blood transfusion if needed.

 • Transport the client for endoscopy is inappropriate at this moment because the client is hemodynamically unstable. Endoscopy is important but must be delayed until the client is stabilized.

 • Check the ECG may be useful if cardiac concerns arise due to hypotension or tachycardia, but it does not take precedence over immediate circulatory support in this scenario.

 • Check arterial blood gases would not provide data that immediately changes the management. The client's O2 saturation is normal, and ABGs are not needed to diagnose or treat hypovolemic shock due to GI bleeding.