A nurse is planning care for a male client who is postoperative following a hernia repair. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan?

Choice A reason: Using two identifiers (e.g., name and medical record number) ensures the correct client receives the medication, preventing errors. This aligns with safety protocols, reducing risks of administering drugs to the wrong person. Verification confirms identity before administration, safeguarding against adverse events and ensuring compliance with standards like The Joint Commission.
Choice B reason: Checking the medication label twice is part of the “rights” of administration but is less specific than using two identifiers for client verification. While important, it addresses medication accuracy, not client identity, which is the primary safety concern to prevent errors, making it less critical in this context.
Choice C reason: Administering medication within 3 hours of the scheduled time relates to timing protocols, not the core action of ensuring safe administration. While timely administration is important, verifying client identity is the priority to prevent errors, as incorrect patient identification can lead to severe adverse events, making this less relevant.
Choice D reason: Administering medications to treat a condition to the actual prescriptions is vague and not a standard safety action. The focus is on verifying client identity and medication accuracy, not a general treatment alignment. This statement does not address a specific, actionable step in safe medication administration, making it incorrect.

Choice A reason: Changing the stoma pouch 30 minutes after meals is not recommended, as meal timing does not dictate pouch changes. Pouches are typically changed every 3-7 days or if leaking, to prevent skin irritation. This statement reflects a misunderstanding, as it suggests an incorrect schedule unrelated to stoma care needs.
Choice B reason: Cutting the pouch opening 1/8 inch larger than the stoma ensures a snug fit, preventing leakage while protecting peristomal skin from irritation by digestive enzymes. Proper sizing maintains skin integrity and pouch adherence, supporting effective ostomy management. This statement demonstrates correct understanding of stoma care techniques.
Choice C reason: Cleaning the stoma with moisturizing soap is incorrect, as soaps with oils or fragrances can irritate peristomal skin and impair pouch adhesion. Mild, non-residue soap and water are recommended to maintain skin integrity. This statement indicates a misunderstanding of proper stoma cleaning practices.
Choice D reason: Expecting the stoma to be blistered is incorrect, as a healthy stoma should be pink, moist, and free of irritation. Blistering indicates complications like infection or poor pouch fit. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of normal stoma appearance and care, suggesting potential issues requiring intervention.