A practical nurse (PN) is providing care to a client who recently received a terminal illness diagnosis. Which question by the PN is the highest priority when assessing anticipatory grief?

A. Healthcare provider notified, client refuses to have blood glucose taken: While this option indicates that the healthcare provider was informed and that the client refused, it does not fully capture the client’s expressed reason for refusal. Complete and precise documentation includes the client’s statement in their own words.
B. Blood glucose not obtained because client no longer wants to have finger stick: This phrasing is too casual and lacks the specificity needed for legal and clinical documentation. It does not reflect the client’s exact words or demonstrate that the healthcare provider was informed about the situation.
C. Refused finger stick and states, "My finger is sore and test useless." Healthcare provider notified: This option best meets documentation standards by including the client's direct quote, ensuring accurate and objective recording of the refusal, and noting that the healthcare provider was informed. It provides a clear, detailed account suitable for medical and legal purposes.
D. Healthcare provider notified that client is uncooperative and irritable, glucose level not assessed: Describing the client as uncooperative and irritable is subjective and could be considered judgmental. Proper documentation should remain objective, focusing on the client’s stated concerns rather than labeling their behavior.

A. Check the medical record to verify the medication's name and strength: The first action is to verify the medication against the medical record to ensure it is the correct drug, dose, and formulation. This prioritizes patient safety by confirming accuracy before administration, preventing possible medication errors.
B. Reassure the client that the blue tablet is the correct medication: Reassuring the client without verifying the medication could risk administering the wrong drug. Even if the nurse believes the medication is correct, professional standards require verification when a discrepancy is noted by the patient.
C. Explain that the tablets are from different manufacturers: Differences in tablet appearance between manufacturers are common, but assuming this without verifying could result in a serious medication error. Visual differences should always be validated against the order and pharmacy records first.
D. Withhold the medication and notify the healthcare provider: Withholding the medication and notifying the healthcare provider may be appropriate if verification reveals a problem. However, the first step is to check the medical record to determine if the medication given matches the prescribed drug and dose.