The practical nurse (PN) observes an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) performing oral hygiene on an unconscious client who is lying in a flat side-lying position with an emesis basin on a towel under the chin. Which action should the PN take?

The correct answer is choice B. Ineffective airway clearance.

Choice A rationale:

Risk of infection is not the priority nursing problem in this scenario. While the darkened membranes and smoky breath may be indicative of potential infection, addressing ineffective airway clearance is more urgent as it directly impacts the client's breathing and oxygenation.

Choice B rationale:

Ineffective airway clearance should be the priority nursing problem. Darkened membranes of the mouth and smoky breath suggest possible inhalation injury or airway obstruction.

Maintaining a patent airway is crucial for adequate oxygenation and to prevent further complications.

Choice C rationale:

Acute pain is not the priority nursing problem in this case. Although it is essential to address any discomfort the client may be experiencing, it takes a back seat to the more critical issue of ineffective airway clearance.

Choice D rationale:

Disturbed body image is not the priority nursing problem when the client has darkened mouth membranes and smoky breath. While it is important to address body image concerns, the immediate focus should be on managing and improving the client's airway clearance.

The correct answer is Choice C. Place the ID bands on the infant and mother.

Choice A rationale:

While obtaining the infant's vital signs is important, it is not the priority action before transporting the baby to the nursery. Placing ID bands on the infant and mother ensures proper identification and prevents mix-ups during transportation, which is crucial in the nursery setting.

Choice B rationale:

Administering vitamin K injection is also essential but not the immediate priority before transporting the baby. Vitamin K administration helps prevent bleeding disorders in newborns, but ensuring proper identification and security come first.

Choice C rationale:

The correct choice. Placing ID bands on the infant and mother is the most important action before transporting the baby to the nursery. This step ensures accurate identification and matching between the baby and the mother, preventing any confusion or errors in the hospital setting.

Choice D rationale:

Observing the infant latching onto the breast is important for promoting breastfeeding, but it can be done after ensuring proper identification and safety measures have been taken.