A nurse is prioritizing care for a client. Which of the following procedures should the nurse perform first?

A. Administer an antiemetic:

Administering an antiemetic might be necessary to relieve nausea and vomiting, but it is not the first action. Before administering medications, it is essential to assess the client's condition and gather information about the underlying cause of the symptoms.

B. Offer pain medication:

Offering pain medication is not the first action. The nurse needs to assess the client's condition, determine the cause of the pain, and gather more information before administering pain relief. Administering pain medication before a thorough assessment can mask important clinical signs and symptoms.

C. Palpate the abdomen:

Palpating the abdomen is an important step in the assessment, but it should follow auscultation of bowel sounds. Palpation can be deferred if there is concern about possible inflammation (as in suspected appendicitis) to avoid causing further irritation.

D. Auscultate bowel sounds:

This is the correct action. Auscultating bowel sounds is the first step in assessing the gastrointestinal (GI) function. The reported symptoms of right lower quadrant pain, nausea, and vomiting could be indicative of various GI issues, such as appendicitis. Assessing bowel sounds helps the nurse gather information about the status of peristalsis and potential obstructions.

A. "You need to understand that you have very little time left":

This response is blunt and may be emotionally distressing for the client. It is essential to communicate with sensitivity and respect the client's autonomy. This option does not explore the available treatment options, which is important in this situation.

B. "I will contact your provider to discuss your options":

This is the correct answer. It demonstrates the nurse's commitment to the client's wishes by taking proactive steps to explore treatment options. Involving the healthcare provider in the discussion allows for a more informed decision-making process and ensures that the client's preferences are considered in the overall care plan

C. "Enjoy the time you have and do the things you want to do":

This response may come across as dismissive and does not directly address the client's expressed desire for more treatment. It is important to acknowledge the client's wishes and explore available options before discussing end-of-life activities.

D. "Hospice care is the best thing for you at this time":

While hospice care is an important consideration for individuals with terminal illnesses, it may not align with the client's current preference for more treatment. Introducing hospice care at this point without discussing treatment options may be premature.