A nurse is planning care for a client who has sciatica and a prescription for a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit. Which of the following referrals should the nurse anticipate for this client?

A. A client who has a right peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC):
When a client has a right-sided PICC, it's essential to measure blood pressure in the left arm. This is because the PICC line can interfere with accurate blood pressure readings on the right side due to the placement of the cuff and potential obstruction of blood flow. Measuring blood pressure in the left arm provides a more accurate assessment of systemic blood pressure.

B. A client who had a right hemisphere stroke:
While clients with a right hemisphere stroke may have various neurological deficits, there is no specific indication to measure blood pressure in the left arm based solely on this condition.

C. A client who had blood drawn from the right antecubital area 1 hr ago:
Blood drawn from the antecubital area typically does not affect blood pressure measurements in the same arm. Therefore, there is no need to measure blood pressure in the opposite arm in this situation.

D. A client who had dialysis and is using an arteriovenous shunt in the left lower forearm:
While clients with arteriovenous shunts may have altered blood flow dynamics, the use of a shunt in the left lower forearm does not necessarily require blood pressure measurements to be taken in the opposite arm. Blood pressure measurement should be performed on the side without the shunt unless contraindicated for other reasons.

C. Obtain a client's vital signs every 4 hr:
This task can typically be delegated to assistive personnel (AP) who have been trained and deemed competent in measuring vital signs. Routine monitoring of vital signs, such as temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure, is within the scope of practice for AP and does not require the specialized skills of a licensed nurse.

D. Record a client's intake after each meal:
Assistive personnel can be delegated the task of recording a client's intake after each meal. This involves documenting the amount and type of food and fluids consumed by the client. While assessment of intake may involve some judgment, AP can be trained to perform this task accurately and consistently.

E. Transfer a client to physical therapy:
Assistive personnel can assist with transferring clients to physical therapy sessions. This may include tasks such as assisting clients into a wheelchair or onto a stretcher and accompanying them to the therapy area. While ensuring client safety during transfers is crucial, AP can perform these tasks under the direction and supervision of licensed nursing staff or physical therapists.

A. Instruct a client on the use of an incentive spirometer:
Teaching clients how to use medical equipment, such as an incentive spirometer, typically requires specialized knowledge and skills that fall within the scope of practice of licensed nursing staff. Therefore, this task should not be delegated to assistive personnel.

B. Insert an NG tube for a client who requires enteral feedings:
Inserting an NG tube is a specialized nursing skill that requires training, expertise, and an understanding of anatomy, proper technique, and potential complications. This task should only be performed by licensed nursing staff, such as registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs), who have received appropriate education and training.