A nurse is collecting data from the family members of a client who has Alzheimer's disease. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify is the priority and requires immediate intervention?

A) Ensure that the client gave informed consent: Obtaining informed consent is a critical nursing responsibility prior to any procedure, including an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). The nurse should verify that the client understands the purpose, risks, and potential outcomes of the procedure. This ensures that the client has voluntarily agreed to undergo the procedure after being fully informed.

B) Administer an oral contrast solution: An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) does not require the administration of an oral contrast solution. The procedure involves the use of a flexible endoscope to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, and is typically performed without contrast agents. Oral contrast is more commonly used in imaging studies such as CT scans or fluoroscopy, not in endoscopy.

C) Inform the client the procedure will take 60 min: The duration of an esophagogastroduodenoscopy typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, not 60 minutes. The nurse should inform the client about the usual time frame for the procedure, but stating 60 minutes could be an overestimate. Providing accurate information about the length of the procedure helps manage client expectations.

D) Ensure that the client's bladder is full: The procedure is focused on the upper gastrointestinal tract, so bladder fullness is not necessary for an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The client should be positioned appropriately, usually in a left lateral position, but there is no need for the bladder to be full. The nurse should ensure that the client follows the pre-procedure guidelines, such as fasting, to reduce the risk of complications.

A) Allow the client to have 1 hour of time alone in their room:
Allowing the client to be alone in their room may not be the best option when they are pacing and wringing their hands, which may indicate anxiety or distress. Rather than isolating them, it is more appropriate to offer support and engage with the client to address the potential underlying anxiety or agitation. Time alone may escalate the feelings of distress rather than provide relief.

B) Use short, simple sentences when speaking with the client:
Using short, simple sentences is an appropriate action when interacting with a client who is pacing and wringing their hands, as this behavior can be indicative of heightened anxiety or agitation. Simple communication reduces confusion and minimizes the cognitive load on the client, helping to keep the interaction clear and calm. It can also help the nurse better assess the client’s feelings and needs in a way that feels less overwhelming to the client.

C) Ask the client if they would like to watch television:
While offering the option of watching television could be an attempt to distract or comfort the client, it does not directly address the potential underlying anxiety or distress the client may be experiencing. It is important to first assess and manage the client’s emotional state before offering distractions like television, which may not effectively address the root of the issue.

D) Move the client to a table where other clients are playing cards:
Moving the client to a group activity may not be the best approach in this situation. The client is demonstrating signs of anxiety or agitation, and suddenly introducing them to a group environment might be overwhelming and could increase their distress. It is more appropriate to first engage the client in a calm, one-on-one interaction using simple communication, and then consider group activities if the client appears ready for them.