A nurse is collecting data from a client who has heart failure.
The nurse notes the client has crackles in the bases of the lungs, shortness of breath, and a respiratory rate of 24/min.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

The correct answers are Choices B, C, D, and E.

Choice A rationale: Refusal of meals, especially in an infected client, is not typically incident reportable. Nurses should note this in the client record and monitor the client's nutritional intake and overall condition.

Choice B rationale: Falls are always reportable incidents. When a client falls, an incident report is required to document the event, analyze contributing factors, and implement measures to prevent future falls.

Choice C rationale: Recording an approximate urine output due to leakage from the catheter bag is a reportable incident. Accurate measurement of urine output is essential, and an incident report helps to address the cause of leakage and prevent recurrence.

Choice D rationale: Administering antibiotics before blood culture and sensitivity testing can affect test results and is a reportable incident. The incident report documents the error and helps to implement measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.

Choice E rationale: Administering medication at the wrong time is a medication administration error. An incident report should be filed to document the deviation from the prescribed schedule and address any potential impacts on the client's condition.

Choice A rationale:

Bradycardia. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that primarily affects the blood's clotting ability. Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a common side effect of heparin. Therefore, it is not a typical adverse effect to report in this context.

Choice B rationale:

Anorexia. Anorexia, or a loss of appetite, is not a common adverse effect of heparin. Heparin's primary mode of action is to prevent blood clot formation, and it does not directly affect appetite.

Choice C rationale:

Weight gain. Weight gain is not a typical adverse effect of heparin. Heparin's mechanism of action does not lead to changes in body weight. Weight gain could be related to other factors but is not directly associated with heparin administration.

Choice D rationale:

Epistaxis. Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, can be a sign of a bleeding disorder or an adverse effect of anticoagulant therapy like heparin. Heparin can increase the risk of bleeding, including nosebleeds, and should be monitored closely for this adverse effect. It is important to report any signs of excessive bleeding to the healthcare provider as they may need to adjust the dosage or monitor the patient more closely.