A nurse is reinforcing discharge instructions with a client who is walking with crutches. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the instructions?

Choice A Reason:

Requesting a medication reconciliation form from the pharmacy is not the immediate step needed for a missed dose. Contacting the previous nurse provides more timely information.

Choice B Reason:

Asking the client if she received the 1700 medication is not the first action to take. The nurse should first investigate the missing documentation through collaboration with the healthcare team.

Choice C Reason:

Contacting the previous nurse to determine if the client received the medication is correct. Contacting the previous nurse is a reasonable and responsible step to gather information about the missed medication. The previous nurse may have insights into why the documentation is missing and whether the medication was administered.

It allows for collaboration and communication among healthcare providers, ensuring accurate and comprehensive information about the client's care. Administering the medication without clarification may lead to a potential double dose if the previous dose was indeed administered.

Choice D Reason:

Administering the medication and documenting the current time without confirming the missed dose could result in an inaccurate representation of the client's medication history and potential harm if the previous dose was already administered. It is crucial to gather information before taking further action.

Choice A Reason:

Placing the drainage system below the client's chest level is appropriate. This positioning allows for proper drainage and prevents the backflow of fluid or air into the chest. Maintaining the drainage system below the chest level helps ensure effective evacuation of air or fluid from the pleural space.

Choice B Reason:

Looping excess tubing next to the client's side is inappropriate. Looping excess tubing can create dependent loops, potentially causing fluid to accumulate in these areas and compromising the drainage system's effectiveness.

Choice C Reason:

Clamping the tubing when ambulating the client is inappropriate. Chest tube drainage systems should not be routinely clamped during ambulation. Clamping can lead to increased pleural pressure, potentially causing tension pneumothorax or other complications.

Choice D Reason:

Milking the client's tubing every shift is inappropriate. Milking or stripping the tubing is not recommended, as it can create a pressure gradient that may damage the lung tissue or disrupt the chest tube's seal. Passive drainage is preferred to maintain the negative pressure in the system.