The nurse requests a meal tray for a client who follows Mormon beliefs and who is on a clear liquid diet following abdominal surgery.
Which menu item(s) should the nurse request for this client? (Select all that apply).

The correct answer is choice C: Instruct the UAP to lower the bed for safety.

Choice C rationale: When bathing a bedfast client, the bed should be in a flat or low position to reduce the risk of the client sliding down, falling, or experiencing discomfort or injury. By instructing the UAP to lower the bed, the PN ensures client safety during the bathing process.

Choice A rationale: Assuming care of the client immediately might be unnecessary. The PN should first address the safety concern and then determine if additional intervention is needed.

Choice B rationale: While supervising the UAP may be appropriate in certain situations, the priority in this case is to address the immediate safety concern by instructing the UAP to lower the bed. The PN can then decide if supervision or assistance is required.

Choice D rationale: Determining if the UAP would like assistance is considerate, but it is not the priority in this situation. Ensuring client safety by lowering the bed should be addressed first. The PN can then assess whether the UAP needs any help or guidance.

The correct answer is choice c. Administer prescribed stool softener.

Choice A rationale:

Administering prescribed PRN sleep medications is not the highest priority. While rest is important, managing pain and preventing complications from the laceration take precedence.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the use of prescribed analgesic perineal sprays is beneficial for pain management, but it is not the highest priority intervention.

Choice C rationale:

Administering a prescribed stool softener is crucial because it helps prevent constipation, which can cause significant pain and strain on the perineal area, potentially worsening the laceration.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging breastfeeding to promote uterine involution is important for postpartum recovery, but it does not directly address the immediate needs related to the fourth-degree laceration.