Which actions by the nurse are examples of independent nursing interventions for a postoperative patient? (Select all that apply).

Choice A reason: This is the correct choice because performing a focused patient assessment is the first action of the nurse when starting care for the patient at the beginning of the shift. A focused patient assessment involves collecting data about the patient's current condition, needs, and preferences. This data helps the nurse to identify any changes, problems, or risks that require immediate attention or intervention.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect choice because conducting the patient’s health history is not the first action of the nurse when starting care for the patient at the beginning of the shift. A health history involves collecting data about the patient's past and present health status, medical history, family history, and social history. This data helps the nurse to understand the patient's background, risk factors, and health goals. A health history is usually conducted during the admission process or the initial assessment, not at the beginning of each shift.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because creating the nursing care plan for the patient is not the first action of the nurse when starting care for the patient at the beginning of the shift. A nursing care plan involves developing a set of interventions and outcomes based on the patient's assessment data, diagnosis, and goals. This plan guides the nurse to provide individualized and holistic care for the patient. A nursing care plan is usually created after the initial assessment and updated regularly throughout the care process, not at the beginning of each shift.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect choice because administering prescribed medications is not the first action of the nurse when starting care for the patient at the beginning of the shift. Administering prescribed medications involves giving the patient the right drug, dose, route, time, and documentation according to the physician's order and the nursing standards. This action requires the nurse to check the patient's assessment data, allergies, vital signs, and laboratory results before giving the medication. Administering prescribed medications is usually done after performing a focused patient assessment, not before.

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect choice because gently trimming the patient’s toenails after soaking the feet in warm soapy water is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. Trimming the toenails can be risky for the diabetic patient, as it can cause bleeding, infection, or injury to the nail bed or surrounding skin. The nurse should avoid cutting the toenails of the diabetic patient, unless instructed by a podiatrist.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect choice because using a pumice stone to smooth roughened areas of skin on the patient’s feet is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. A pumice stone is a porous rock that can be used to exfoliate the skin and remove dead cells. However, it can also damage the skin and cause abrasions, irritation, or infection. The nurse should be careful when using a pumice stone on the diabetic patient, and avoid rubbing too hard or too often.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because liberally applying lotion to the patient's feet especially between the toes is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. Applying lotion to the feet can help to moisturize and soften the skin, but it can also create a moist environment that can promote fungal growth and infection. The nurse should apply lotion sparingly to the feet of the diabetic patient, and avoid applying it between the toes.

Choice D reason: This is the correct choice because obtaining a consultation for a podiatrist to assess the feet and provide nail care is the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. A podiatrist is a specialist who can diagnose and treat foot problems, such as nail disorders, skin conditions, or infections. The podiatrist can safely and effectively trim the toenails of the diabetic patient, and provide education and advice on foot care and prevention of complications. The nurse should refer the diabetic patient to a podiatrist at least once a year, or more often if needed.