The nurse is caring for a patient who is unconscious.
Which action by the nurse is appropriate?

Choice A rationale

Relying solely on written communication can be time-consuming and may not be suitable for all situations or for clients with low literacy. While it can be a useful adjunct, it shouldn't replace verbal communication entirely.

Choice B rationale

Reducing time spent with the client can hinder effective communication and relationship building. It doesn't address the communication barrier and may leave the client feeling unheard and uncared for.

Choice C rationale

Speaking loudly can distort sounds and make it harder for someone with a hearing deficit to understand. It can also be perceived as disrespectful or condescending. The approach should focus on clarity, not volume.

Choice D rationale

Background noise, such as a television, can significantly interfere with a hearing-impaired person's ability to understand speech. Reducing or eliminating such distractions creates a clearer auditory environment, facilitating better comprehension of verbal communication.

Choice A rationale

Before delegating any nursing task, the nurse must first determine if the action is permissible under the state's nurse practice act and the employing agency's policies. These regulations define the scope of practice for nurses and the tasks that can be safely and legally delegated to unlicensed personnel. If delegation is not allowed by these governing bodies, the subsequent questions become irrelevant.

Choice B rationale

While it is crucial to ensure that the UAP has been adequately trained and is competent to perform the delegated task safely and correctly, this consideration comes after establishing the legality and permissibility of the delegation according to the nurse practice act and agency policy. Training is important for safe implementation but not the initial determining factor.

Choice C rationale

Appropriate supervision is necessary when delegating tasks to UAPs to ensure client safety and provide guidance. However, the ability to delegate the task itself must first be established by legal and policy guidelines. Supervision is a component of safe delegation but not the primary question determining if delegation is even an option.

Choice D rationale

Evaluating the client's past response to a treatment might inform how the task is performed or any specific observations needed, but it does not determine the fundamental question of whether the task can be delegated to a UAP in the first place. Legal and policy frameworks dictate the scope of delegation, regardless of the client's history. .