A nurse is placing a patient on isolation precautions. The patient’s diagnostic results at 1400 are given.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale

Discussing the risk factors for colon cancer may not be helpful or comforting to a client who is expressing anger about their diagnosis. It might lead to feelings of guilt or regret if the client feels they could have done something to prevent the disease.

Choice B rationale

Focusing on future management of the illness may be overwhelming for a client who is currently expressing anger about their diagnosis. It might be more beneficial to address the client’s current emotional state before discussing future plans.

Choice C rationale

Providing written information about the phases of loss and grief may be helpful, but it may not address the client’s immediate emotional needs. The client may not be ready to read and process this information while they are expressing anger.

Choice D rationale

Reassuring the client that anger is an expected response to grief can validate the client’s feelings and help them feel understood. It’s important to acknowledge and validate the client’s emotions during this difficult time.

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice C rationale: Assessing the patient for orthostatic hypotension is crucial because patients who can only bear weight on one leg may have compromised balance and stability. Orthostatic hypotension, or a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, could lead to dizziness or fainting, increasing the risk of falls and injury. Identifying this condition before transferring the patient ensures appropriate interventions can be taken to maintain safety and prevent accidents. The nurse can then apply necessary precautions such as additional support or slow, gradual position changes to minimize the risk.

Choice A rationale: Rocking the patient up to a standing position might help initiate the transfer, but it’s not the immediate priority after securing a safe environment. Ensuring the patient's stability and monitoring their vital signs, especially for orthostatic hypotension, is essential before attempting any movement.

Choice B rationale: Pivoting on the foot that is the farthest from the chair is part of the transfer technique, but it should only be performed after confirming the patient is stable and not at risk of orthostatic hypotension. Proper assessment precedes this step to prevent potential falls.

Choice D rationale: Applying a gait belt to the patient is important for safe transfer, but again, this step follows the assessment of the patient's condition. The gait belt is an aid for the transfer process, but its effectiveness relies on the patient's ability to stand without becoming dizzy or faint.