The nurse is developing an activity plan for a client. The nurse should recognize that which activity plan would best conserve the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health?

Choice A reason: Administering an antipyretic is not the next action that the nurse should initiate because it does not address the priority problem of potential brain damage or death caused by meningococcal meningitis, which is a bacterial infection of the meninges that can rapidly progress to septic shock or disseminated intravascular coagulation.

Choice B reason: Decreasing environmental stimuli is not the next action that the nurse should initiate because it does not address the priority problem of potential brain damage or death caused by meningococcal meningitis, which can impair the function of the central nervous system and cause increased intracranial pressure, seizures, coma, or cranial nerve palsies.

Choice C reason: Assessing the cranial nerves is the next action that the nurse should initiate because it can provide vital information about the extent and severity of brain involvement caused by meningococcal meningitis, which can affect any or all of the 12 pairs of cranial nerves that control sensory and motor functions of the head and neck.

Choice D reason: Completing a vascular assessment is not the next action that the nurse should initiate because it does not address the priority problem of potential brain damage or death caused by meningococcal meningitis, which can cause inflammation and damage of blood vessels in various parts of the body, leading to ischemia, necrosis, or gangrenE.

Choice A reason: Scheduling energy-intensive activities at the time of day when the client has higher energy levels is an activity plan that would best conserve the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health because it allows the client to perform tasks when they feel most capable and comfortable, as well as balance rest and activity throughout the day.

Choice B reason: Scheduling all activities within a small block of time to allow the client a longer, uninterrupted rest period is not an activity plan that would best conserve the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health because it can cause fatigue, stress, and frustration for the client, as well as reduce their mobility and function.

Choice C reason: Scheduling toilet breaks before and after any other planned activity is not an activity plan that would best conserve the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health because it can limit the client's fluid intake and output, as well as increase the risk of urinary tract infections or constipation.

Choice D reason: Scheduling the client's hygiene activities and limiting visitors is not an activity plan that would best conserve the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health because it can neglect the client's social and emotional needs, as well as isolate the client from their support system.