When gathering data about a client with dark skin tones, which site should the practical nurse (PN) observe?

A. Explaining the examination and asking the client to sign the consent form is not within the PN's scope of practice. It is the responsibility of the healthcare provider performing the procedure to explain the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the exam and to obtain informed consent from the client.

B. Checking the medical record for the correct signed consent form prior to the examination is an essential role for the practical nurse. It ensures that informed consent has been obtained and documented before proceeding with any invasive procedure, aligning with the PN's responsibility to verify necessary documentation.

C. Explaining to a family member and obtaining their signature on the consent form may be appropriate only if the client is unable to provide consent and has a legal representative. However, obtaining consent and explaining the procedure is still the responsibility of the healthcare provider, not the PN.

D. Asking if the client understands the exam and why the consent form must be signed is part of the PN's role in ensuring that the client is informed, but the PN cannot assume responsibility for explaining the procedure in detail. This should be done by the healthcare provider who will perform the exam.

- Urinary output is an important indicator of fluid balance and kidney function. After delivery, a woman may experience increased urinary output due to the loss of excess fluid that was retained during pregnancy and the diuretic effect of oxytocin, which is released during breastfeeding. This is a normal and expected finding in the postpartum period.

- However, increased urinary output may also be a sign of urinary retention, which is the inability to empty the bladder completely. Urinary retention can occur due to trauma to the bladder or urethra during delivery, swelling or hematoma of the perineum, epidural anesthesia, or decreased bladder sensation. Urinary retention can lead to complications such as infection, bladder distension, or postpartum hemorrhage.

- Therefore, when a woman who delivered a normal newborn 24 hours ago reports that she seems to be urinating every hour or so, the practical nurse (PN) should measure the next voiding, and then palpate the client's bladder. This will help to assess the amount and quality of urine and the presence or absence of bladder distension. A normal urine output is about 30 ml per hour, and a normal bladder should feel soft and empty after voiding. If the urine output is low or high, or if the bladder feels firm or full after voiding, the PN should report these findings to the primary healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.

Therefore, option B is the correct answer, while options A, C, and D are incorrect.

Option A is incorrect because catheterizing the client for residual urine volume is an invasive procedure that should only be done if indicated by the primary healthcare provider.

Option C is incorrect because evaluating for normal involution and massaging the fundus are related to uterine function, not urinary function.

Option D is incorrect because obtaining a specimen for urine culture and sensitivity is not necessary unless there are signs of infection, such as fever, dysuria, or foul-smelling urine.