The nurse is caring for a client with elevated parathyroid hormone levels. Which safety precaution should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Choice A reason: After cardiac catheterization, monitoring the client's vital signs and telemetry pattern is crucial, especially when symptoms like weakness and dizziness are reported. These symptoms could indicate serious complications such as bleeding, arrhythmia, or cardiac tamponade. Monitoring vital signs can help detect hypotension, hemorrhage, or other hemodynamic instabilities. Telemetry is crucial for detecting arrhythmias that may require immediate intervention.

Choice B reason: Palpating and comparing pedal pulse volumes is an important step to assess for vascular complications such as thrombosis or embolism. However, it is not the immediate priority when a client reports systemic symptoms like weakness and dizziness, which could be signs of more serious conditions.

Choice C reason: Measuring post-procedure intake and output is part of routine postoperative care to ensure proper fluid balance. While important, it is not the most critical action to take when a client is experiencing acute symptoms that could indicate life-threatening complications.

Choice D reason: Removing the dressing and observing the site might be indicated if there is suspicion of bleeding or hematoma formation at the catheterization site. However, since the dressing is reported to be dry and intact, and the client is experiencing systemic symptoms, the priority is to assess for potential systemic complications first.

Choice A reason: Asking for specifics about the night nurse's behavior could reinforce the client's splitting behavior, which is not therapeutic.

Choice B reason: Promising to talk to the night nurse may validate the client's negative perception without understanding the full context.

Choice C reason: Focusing on the client's progress and upcoming discharge avoids engaging in a discussion that could reinforce dichotomous thinking.This response is non-confrontational and avoids engaging in the client’s dichotomous thinking. It focuses on the positive aspect of the client’s situation, which is their improvement and discharge from the hospital. It’s important for healthcare professionals to maintain professional boundaries and not reinforce potentially harmful behavior patterns.

Choice D reason: Seeking details about the client's preference for certain staff can encourage splitting behavior and is not beneficial.