A nurse is planning on teaching a client who is scheduled for an intravenous pyelogram (IVP). Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A reason: Palpate the client’s pedal pulses

Palpating the client’s pedal pulses assesses the blood flow to the lower extremities but does not provide information about the client’s muscle strength. This action is important for evaluating circulation but is not relevant for determining strength.

Choice B reason: Ask the client how strong she feels today

Asking the client how strong she feels today provides subjective information about the client’s perception of her strength. While this can be useful, it does not offer an objective measure of muscle strength. Objective assessments are more reliable for determining the client’s actual strength.

Choice C reason: Ask the client to touch her finger to her nose

Asking the client to touch her finger to her nose assesses coordination and fine motor skills rather than muscle strength. This test is often used to evaluate neurological function but does not provide information about the strength of the muscles needed for ambulation.

Choice D reason: Ask the client to push her feet against the nurse’s palms

Asking the client to push her feet against the nurse’s palms is an effective way to assess the strength of the lower extremities. This action provides an objective measure of the client’s muscle strength, which is crucial for determining her ability to ambulate safely. This test helps the nurse evaluate whether the client has sufficient strength to stand and walk.

Choice A reason:

Providing a list of the client’s current medications during the change of shift report is important for continuity of care, but it is not the primary focus of medication reconciliation. Medication reconciliation aims to ensure accuracy of the medication list at key transition points, such as admission, transfer, and discharge.

Choice B reason:

Not performing reconciliation for a client at discharge from a health care facility is incorrect. Medication reconciliation is crucial at discharge to ensure that the patient leaves with an accurate and complete list of medications, which helps prevent medication errors and adverse drug events.

Choice C reason:

Providing a list of the client’s current medications during admission to a health care facility is a key component of medication reconciliation. This process involves comparing the patient’s current medications with the new medications ordered upon admission to identify and resolve any discrepancies. This helps ensure that the patient receives the correct medications throughout their stay.

Choice D reason:

Including only prescription medications in the medication reconciliation report is insufficient. The reconciliation process should include all medications the patient is taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies. This comprehensive approach helps identify potential interactions and ensures safe medication management.