In caring for a client who is receiving meropenem IV for nosocomial pneumonia, which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider?

Choice A reason: Mark an outline of the 'olive-shaped' mass in the right epigastric area. This is not a priority action, as it does not address the immediate needs of the infant. The 'olive-shaped' mass is a sign of pyloric stenosis, but it does not affect the infant's hydration or nutrition.

Choice B reason: Instruct parents regarding care of the incisional area. This is an important action, but not a priority before surgery. The parents need to know how to care for the incisional area after surgery, but this can be done later.

Choice C reason: Monitor amount of intake and infant's response to feedings. This is a relevant action, but not a priority before surgery. The infant with pyloric stenosis may have vomiting, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance due to gastric outlet obstruction. Monitoring intake and output can help assess the severity of these problems, but it does not correct them.

Choice D reason: Initiate a continuous infusion of IV fluids per prescription. This is the priority action before surgery, as it can prevent or treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalance in the infant. IV fluids can also help maintain blood volume and perfusion during surgery.

Choice A reason: Assigning the UAP to provide care for another client and assume full care of the client is not an action that the nurse should take, as this is unnecessary and inefficient. The UAP can safely assist the client with influenza if they follow proper infection control measures. This is an incorrect choice.

Choice B reason: Reviewing the need for the UAP to wear a face mask while in close contact with the client is an action that the nurse should take, as this can protect the UAP and others from droplet transmission of influenza. This is a standard precaution that should be reinforced by the nurse. Therefore, this is the correct choice.

Choice C reason: Instructing the UAP to apply a fitted respirator mask before entering the client's room is not an action that the nurse should take, as this is not indicated for a client with influenza. A respirator mask is required for airborne transmission, not droplet transmission. This is another incorrect choice.

Choice D reason: Directing the UAP to notify the nurse of any changes in the client's respiratory status is not an action that the nurse should take, as this is a general instruction that does not address the specific issue of infection control. This is another incorrect choice.