A nurse is providing teaching about dietary recommendations to a client who has iron deficiency anemia. Which of the following dietary recommendations should the nurse include as a food that enhances iron absorption when consumed with nonheme iron?

Choice A reason: I would be happy to do whatever I can to help you. While this response shows empathy and a willingness to help, it does not address the fact that shopping for the client is outside the nurse’s job description. It is important for the nurse to adhere to professional boundaries and find appropriate solutions within those limits.

Choice B reason: What I think you should do is wait for the days when you feel better and do your grocery shopping then. This response is not practical or supportive. It does not provide a solution for the client’s immediate needs and may come across as dismissive of her current difficulties.

Choice C reason: I won’t be able to shop for you today because I have to get home to my family. This response is honest but lacks empathy and does not offer any alternative solutions. It may leave the client feeling unsupported and frustrated.

Choice D reason: Let’s look at some other resources to solve this problem. This response is the most appropriate as it acknowledges the client’s needs and seeks to find a solution within the nurse’s professional boundaries. The nurse can help the client explore options such as grocery delivery services, community resources, or assistance from family and friends.

Choice A reason: A client who had a stroke and is to be admitted

Assigning a client who had a stroke and is to be admitted might not be the best choice for an RN floated from the maternal-newborn unit. Stroke patients often require specialized neurological assessments and interventions that the RN might not be familiar with. Additionally, the initial admission process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring familiarity with the specific protocols and procedures of the medical-surgical unit.

Choice B reason: A client who is one-day postoperative following a total abdominal hysterectomy

This is the most appropriate assignment for the RN floated from the maternal-newborn unit. The RN is likely to be familiar with postoperative care, especially related to abdominal surgeries, given their experience in the maternal-newborn unit. Postoperative care involves monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and ensuring proper wound care, all of which are within the RN’s skill set. This familiarity can help ensure the client receives competent and safe care.

Choice C reason: A client who has acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis can be a complex condition requiring specialized knowledge of gastrointestinal issues and potential complications such as fluid and electrolyte imbalances, respiratory issues, and severe pain management. The RN from the maternal-newborn unit may not have the specific expertise needed to manage these complexities effectively.

Choice D reason: A client who has terminal end-stage renal disease

Caring for a client with terminal end-stage renal disease involves managing complex chronic conditions, including fluid balance, electrolyte management, and possibly dialysis. This requires specialized knowledge and skills that the RN from the maternal-newborn unit might not possess. Additionally, end-of-life care requires a specific set of competencies and experience that might not be within the RN’s usual scope of practice.