The practical nurse (PN) is providing instructions to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) preparing to give a total bed bath to an immobile client who has a continuous feeding via gastrostomy tube (GT).

Which instruction is most important for the PN to emphasize?

The correct answer is Choice D: Obtain the client's weight.

Choice D rationale: Obtaining the client's weight is crucial in planning hemodialysis treatment, as it helps determine the amount of fluid that needs to be removed during the procedure. This information contributes to accurate calculation of the ultrafiltration rate, ensuring adequate fluid balance and preventing potential complications associated with fluid overload or excessive fluid removal.

Choice A rationale: Encouraging the client to increase fluid intake is not recommended in the context of hemodialysis, as excessive fluid intake may result in fluid overload, a common complication in patients undergoing this treatment. Instead, the nurse should advise the client on appropriate fluid restrictions, taking into account their individualized plan of care.

Choice B rationale: Reinforcing the practice of sleeping on the side of the access site is not advisable because it could lead to increased pressure on the arteriovenous fistula, potentially causing complications such as thrombosis or stenosis. It is generally recommended that clients avoid putting pressure on the access site, particularly during sleep or when engaging in activities that could cause direct contact with the area.

Choice C rationale: Obtaining the client's blood pressure in either arm is not the appropriate approach, as the arm with the arteriovenous fistula should not be used for blood pressure measurements or any other procedures that could damage the fistula. Blood pressure should be measured in the non-access arm to ensure the integrity of the vascular access and minimize the risk of complications.

Choice A rationale:

Asking, "What would your family do without you?" can be seen as judgmental and may not encourage open communication. It doesn't directly address the client's statement about feeling like a burden or wanting to be gone.

Choice B rationale:

Saying, "When you get better you will not feel this way," minimizes the client's feelings and can be invalidating. It does not show empathy or concern for the client's current emotional state.

Choice C rationale:

Asking, "Why would you think a thing like that?" can come across as judgmental and may make the client defensive. It does not directly address the client's emotional distress or suicidal ideation.

Choice D rationale:

This is the correct answer. "Are you thinking of hurting yourself?" is a direct and appropriate question to assess the client's risk of self-harm or suicide. It demonstrates concern for the client's well-being and opens the door for a more in-depth conversation about their feelings and thoughts. Assessing for suicidal ideation is a crucial step in providing appropriate care for a client with depressive disorder.