A nurse is preparing to remove an NG tube for a client who is postoperative following colon surgery. In which order should the nurse perform the following steps?

(Move the steps into the box on the right, placing them in the order of performance. Use all the steps.)

Choice A Reason:

"Encourage your partner to eat three large meals each day." Is incorrect. At the end of life, a patient's appetite might decrease, and they may not tolerate large meals. Encouraging large meals can cause discomfort or be inappropriate for their condition.

Choice B Reason:

"We will use an electric blanket to keep your partner warm." Is incorrect. While maintaining comfort is important, the use of an electric blanket might not be suitable as the patient's circulation and ability to regulate body temperature might be compromised.

Choice C Reason:

"Opioids will be restricted if your partner develops respiratory distress." Is incorrect.

Opioids can be appropriate for managing symptoms like pain or dyspnea at the end of life. Restricting opioids solely due to the risk of respiratory distress might hinder adequate symptom management. The use of opioids should be based on individual patient needs and careful assessment by healthcare providers.

Choice D Reason:

"Assume your partner can hear you, even if they do not respond." Is correct. This statement encourages communication and acknowledges the possibility that the patient might still be able to perceive their surroundings, even if they are not responsive. It supports the importance of providing emotional support and communication during the end-of-life process.

Choice AReason:

Encouraging the client to abstain from distracting activities is incorrect. Engaging in distracting activities can actually be beneficial in pain management. It can redirect the client's focus away from the pain, potentially reducing its intensity.

Choice BReason:

Ensuring that the client's room is kept at a cool temperature is incorrect.

While temperature can influence comfort, maintaining a cool room might not directly address or alleviate the client's pain.

Choice C Reason:

Playing music in the client's room is correct. Music therapy is a nonpharmacological intervention that can effectively help in managing pain. Calming or soothing music can distract the client from pain, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation, potentially reducing the perception of pain.

Choice D Reason:

Keep the client's room well-lit is incorrect. The lighting in the room might not significantly impact pain levels. Some individuals might prefer dim lighting for relaxation, but it might not directly influence pain perception.