At 3 AM, an individual walks into your emergency department pacing back and forth in the waiting area before approaching staff to ask if a family member is a patient in the ED. The family member is a patient on another unit. The individual speaks rapidly, has a flushed face, and glances around often with hands kept in a jacket pocket. The best initial response would be to:

Choice A reason: While asking for assistance is important, the first action should be to assess the client for any injuries to determine the appropriate course of action.

Choice B reason: Instructing the client to ask for help is a preventive measure for future incidents but does not address the immediate concern of potential injuries.

Choice C reason: Calling the provider is necessary after assessing and stabilizing the client's condition, not as the first action upon finding the client on the floor.

Choice D reason: The nurse's priority is to ensure the client's safety. Inspecting the client for injuries immediately helps to identify any urgent medical needs and is the most appropriate first response.

Choice A reason: Moving the beds of non-ambulatory patients away from windows is crucial to protect them from potential harm caused by shattered glass or debris during severe weather events. It is a standard safety procedure in such situations.

Choice B reason: Relocating ambulatory patients into the hallways helps to ensure their safety, as hallways are typically more structurally reinforced and do not have windows that can pose a risk during severe weather.

Choice C reason: Using elevators during severe weather, especially when there is a risk of power failure, is not recommended. It is safer to use the stairs to move clients to lower levels if necessary.

Choice D reason: Opening window shades or drapes is not advisable during severe weather as it increases the risk of harm from flying debris or broken glass. It is better to keep them closed to act as a barrier.

Choice E reason: Turning the radio on for severe weather warnings is important to stay informed about the weather conditions and receive instructions from local authorities or the facility's emergency management team.