The practical nurse (PN) is caring for an older client who is receiving chemotherapy for lung cancer. Which finding is the highest priority for the PN to report to the charge nurse?

Reference ranges:

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): [Adult: 10 to 20 mg/dL or 3.6 to 7.1 mmol/L] Platelets: [150,000 to 400,000/mm3 or 150 to 400 x 10^9/L]

Tell the client that the PN will verify that the dispensed medication is the valid prescription. Choice A rationale:

Explaining that the healthcare provider probably prescribed a different medication while the client is hospitalized (Choice A) may create confusion or concern for the client. It is essential to reassure the client and take appropriate action to address the discrepancy in the appearance of the medication.

Choice C rationale:

Explaining that the pharmacy often substitutes generic equivalents for more expensive brands (Choice C) is not applicable in this situation since the client is expressing concern about the appearance of the medication prescribed by the healthcare provider, not a substitution by the pharmacy.

Choice D rationale:

Telling the client that he is probably confused since being hospitalized tends to disorient clients (Choice D) is dismissive of the client's concerns. It is crucial to acknowledge the client's observation and address the issue professionally.

The correct answer is choice C. Coffee-ground secretions draining via nasogastric tube suction.

Choice A rationale:

Oral ice chips eaten 30 minutes after vomiting postoperatively could be considered normal in some cases. However, this finding may not require immediate reporting to the RN unless

other concerning symptoms are present. Choice B rationale:

The inability to void 4 hours after discontinuing an indwelling catheter is not an immediate concern. It's not uncommon for some clients to experience difficulty urinating initially after catheter removal. The client should be closely monitored, and the RN should be informed if the situation persists or worsens.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct answer because coffee-ground secretions draining via nasogastric tube suction can indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially from the stomach or esophagus. This finding requires immediate attention as it could be a sign of a serious condition and may require urgent intervention.

Choice D rationale:

Ineffective pain management reported while using morphine PCA is a concern but may not be as critical as the coffee-ground secretions. The PN should still report this finding to the RN for appropriate assessment and possible adjustment of pain management, but it may not warrant immediate reporting.