After an increase in the number of suicides in a community, the nurse is developing a class for adolescents about mental health.

Which type of activity should the nurse include in the teaching?

When a preoperative client expresses fear and uncertainty about undergoing surgery, the priority action for the practical nurse (PN) is to notify the charge nurse of the client's concerns. This is important because the charge nurse can coordinate appropriate interventions and support for the client, ensuring their emotional well-being and addressing their fears.

Let's evaluate the other options:

a) Encourage the client to continue with the scheduled surgery.
While it is important to provide support and reassurance to the client, simply encouraging them to continue with the scheduled surgery may not adequately address their specific concerns and fears. The charge nurse and the healthcare team should be involved to provide the necessary support and information to help alleviate the client's anxiety.

b) Document that the client has expressed concerns about the surgery.
Documenting the client's concerns is important for accurate record-keeping and continuity of care. However, it should not be the only action taken. Notifying the charge nurse is crucial to ensure appropriate follow-up and support for the client.

d) Remind the client that the consent has already been obtained.
Reminding the client that they have already signed the informed consent may not effectively address their fears and concerns. Reassurance and support should be provided, and involving the charge nurse and healthcare team is essential to address the client's emotional well-being.

In summary, when a preoperative client confides in the practical nurse (PN) about being frightened and unsure about undergoing surgery, the priority action is to notify the charge nurse of the client's concerns. This allows for appropriate interventions, support, and coordination of care to address the client's fears, ensure their emotional well-being, and provide necessary information about the surgical procedure.

Choice A rationale:

Protamine sulfate is an antidote for heparin overdose and should be administered slowly intravenously to avoid rapid hemodynamic changes and potential adverse reactions.Administering it within 30 minutes ensures timely reversal of heparin’s anticoagulant effects.

Choice B rationale:

Administering protamine sulfate rapidly intramuscularly is incorrect because intramuscular administration is not recommended due to the risk of hematoma formation and slower absorption compared to intravenous administration.

Choice C rationale:

While slow intravenous administration is correct, the timing of 60 minutes is less effective compared to 30 minutes for reversing heparin’s effects promptly.

Choice D rationale:

Rapid intramuscular administration is incorrect for the same reasons as Choice B.Rapid administration can cause adverse reactions, and intramuscular administration is not the preferred route.