A nurse is completing an admission assessment on a client who has been transferred to the unit. The client has a history of falls and confusion. The nurse forgets to initiate any fall risk prevention as indicated by the hospital policy, and later during the shift, the client falls and sustains a wrist fracture. Which legal tort is the nurse at risk for from this situation?

Choice A reason: This posture, known as the tripod position, is common among clients with emphysema as it helps them breathe more easily by using accessory muscles. While it indicates respiratory distress, it is not immediately life-threatening.

Choice B reason: A respiratory rate of 8 breaths/min is significantly below the normal range (12-20 breaths/min) and indicates hypoventilation, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as hypercapnia (elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood). This finding needs immediate attention from the provider.

Choice C reason: A barrel chest is a common physical finding in clients with chronic emphysema. It develops over time due to hyperinflation of the lungs but is not an urgent finding that needs immediate reporting.

Choice D reason: Fine bibasilar crackles can indicate fluid accumulation in the lungs or other lung pathology, but this finding alone does not necessarily require immediate intervention unless accompanied by other critical symptoms.

Choice A reason: Confirming that the rehabilitation center has a room available at the time of transfer is essential to ensure the client has a designated space upon arrival. This helps prevent any delays or complications during the transfer process.

Choice B reason: Ensuring the client has possession of his valuables is important for safeguarding the client's personal belongings during the transfer. This task helps prevent any loss or misplacement of valuable items.

Choice C reason: Completing a transfer form for the receiving facility is a critical task that involves documenting the client's medical information, treatment plan, and other relevant details. This form ensures that the receiving facility has all the necessary information to continue the client's care seamlessly.

Choice D reason: While assessing how the client tolerates the transfer is important, it is typically done after the transfer has occurred, rather than being a responsibility of the nurse at the sending facility. This task is more relevant to the receiving facility's staff.

Choice E reason: Sending a copy of the client's chart with diagnostic and laboratory results ensures that the receiving facility has access to the client's medical history, test results, and other pertinent information. This facilitates continuity of care and informed decision-making.