A nurse manager notes that the number of medication administration errors has increased on the unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. If the client requires supplemental oxygen, an oxygen tank may be necessary. Clients with tracheostomies might need supplemental oxygen depending on their underlying condition and oxygenation needs. However, not all tracheostomy patients will require an oxygen tank, so this depends on the specific medical situation of the client.
B. Pipe cleaners are not a standard supply for tracheostomy care. They are not recommended for cleaning the tracheostomy tube or the stoma. Instead, tracheostomy care usually involves cleaning with specific, approved cleaning supplies and techniques, such as sterile saline or tracheostomy care kits.
C. The obturator is a crucial tool used in the initial placement of a tracheostomy tube. It helps guide the tube into place. While not always needed on a daily basis, the obturator should be kept accessible in case the tracheostomy tube needs to be replaced or if the tube becomes dislodged. It is important for emergency situations to have an obturator available.
D. Cotton balls are not recommended for tracheostomy care because they can shed fibers that may cause irritation or potential obstruction in the tracheostomy tube. Instead, sterile gauze or other appropriate dressing materials are used to manage the area around the tracheostomy.
E. Petroleum jelly should not be used around the tracheostomy stoma or on the tracheostomy tube. It can cause a buildup of residue, potentially leading to irritation or infection. It is important to use only recommended products and techniques for tracheostomy care, such as sterile saline or appropriate tracheostomy care products.

A. Photophobia (sensitivity to light) is a common symptom in meningitis due to irritation of the meninges. While it is an important symptom to note and manage, it does not typically represent an immediate life-threatening condition.
B. An increased temperature (fever) is a common finding in meningitis and indicates an inflammatory response. While fever is important to manage, it is not as urgent as changes in consciousness or neurological status.
C. A decreased level of consciousness is a critical finding in a client with meningitis. This can indicate a worsening of the condition, such as increased intracranial pressure, brain herniation, or severe complications. Changes in consciousness are potentially life-threatening and require prompt evaluation and intervention by the healthcare provider to address any emergent issues and prevent further deterioration.
D. A generalized rash could indicate a specific type of meningitis, such as meningococcal meningitis, which can present with a characteristic petechial or purpuric rash. While a rash is a significant finding and should be reported, it is not as immediately critical as changes in consciousness.