A nurse is creating an incident report due to an accidental omission of a client's dressing change during the previous shift.
Which of the following statements should the nurse document on the incident report form?

Droplet.

The rationale for each choice is as follows:

• A. Droplet: Correct. Pneumonia is transmitted by respiratory droplets that are generated by coughing, sneezing, or talking. The nurse should wear a surgical mask and eye protection when caring for the client and maintain a distance of at least 3 feet from the client.
• B. Airborne: Incorrect. Airborne precautions are used for diseases that are transmitted by small particles that remain suspended in the air for long periods of time, such as tuberculosis, measles, or chickenpox. The nurse should wear a respirator and place the client in a negative-pressure room.
• C. Contact: Incorrect. Contact precautions are used for diseases that are transmitted by direct or indirect contact with the client or the client's environment, such as Clostridium difficile, scabies, or MRSA. The nurse should wear gloves and a gown and use dedicated equipment for the client.
• D. Protective environment: Incorrect. Protective environment precautions are used for clients who are immunocompromised and at risk of infection from others, such as clients who have had a stem cell transplant or are receiving chemotherapy. The nurse should wear a mask, gloves, and a gown and place the client in a positive-pressure room with HEPA filtration.

- A. Contacting the facility chaplain to visit with the client may be helpful for some clients who have spiritual needs or concerns, but it does not address the client's expressed desire to go home. The nurse should respect the client's wishes and preferences and not impose their own beliefs or values on them.

- B. Explaining the process of leaving the facility against medical advice may discourage the client from pursuing their goal of going home and imply that they are making a wrong decision. The nurse should not judge or coerce the client, but rather provide them with information and support to make an informed choice.

- C. Making a referral for social services is the best action for the nurse to take, as it will help the client access resources and services that can facilitate their discharge planning and home care arrangements. The social worker can also assist with financial, legal, or emotional issues that may arise from the terminal diagnosis.

- D. Encouraging the client to continue with inpatient care may go against the client's wishes and values, and may cause them more distress and suffering. The nurse should respect the client's autonomy and dignity and support their quality of life goals.