A nurse is preparing to administer a medication to a client for the first time. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to help ensure safe medication administration?

A. Social worker:

While social workers play a vital role in addressing psychosocial needs and connecting clients with community resources, they typically do not have the specialized skills or training to address the physical limitations associated with feeding difficulties due to rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, a referral to a social worker may not directly address the client's need for assistance with feeding.

B. Occupational therapist

Occupational therapists specialize in helping individuals regain or maintain independence in performing activities of daily living (ADLs), including feeding oneself. In the case of a client with severe rheumatoid arthritis in her hands who is unable to feed herself, an occupational therapist can assess the client's abilities, provide interventions such as adaptive equipment or techniques to facilitate feeding, and offer strategies to improve hand function and joint mobility. They can also collaborate with the client and other members of the healthcare team to develop a customized plan of care to address the client's specific needs and goals related to feeding and self-care.

C. Physician assistant:

Physician assistants work closely with physicians to provide medical care and may be involved in diagnosing and managing various health conditions. However, they do not typically provide specialized rehabilitation services or interventions related to activities of daily living such as feeding. Therefore, a referral to a physician assistant may not address the client's specific need for occupational therapy services.

D. Physical therapist:

Physical therapists specialize in restoring mobility, strength, and function, primarily focusing on gross motor skills and movement patterns. While physical therapists may address certain aspects of hand function and mobility, they do not specialize in activities of daily living such as feeding. Therefore, a referral to a physical therapist may not directly address the client's need for assistance with feeding due to severe rheumatoid arthritis in her hands.

A. Asking the family if they wish to assist in washing the client's body:

This is an important first step because it respects the family's cultural or religious practices and allows them to participate in the care of their loved one if they choose. It sets the tone for sensitive and respectful postmortem care.

B. Removing the client's dentures for their family to keep:

Dentures are usually leftin the mouth tomaintain facial shape.However, this action is not the first priority.

C. Leaving the client's eyes open until the family views the body:

It is generally recommended to gently close the client's eyes after death as part of the postmortem care process. Leaving the eyes open might be distressing for the family, so this action should not be performed first.

D. Turn overhead lights to a bright setting.

Bright lighting may not be comforting for the family or create a peaceful environment. Dim or soft lighting is usually preferred to create a calming atmosphere during this sensitive time. Therefore, this is not the first action the nurse should take.