Which instruction should a nurse include in the teaching plan for a client receiving non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis?

Formed stool two times per day, every day, for one week. This indicates that bowel training is attaining the desired outcome because it shows regularity and consistency of bowel movements without the use of laxatives or enemas.

Choice B is wrong because soap sud enemas are not recommended for bowel training as they can irritate the bowel and cause fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

Choice C is wrong because continued use of laxatives can inhibit the natural defecation reflexes and cause dependency.

Choice D is wrong because a formed, soft stool at regular intervals without the use of a laxative is a normal defecation pattern, not an indication of fecal incontinence.

It is a legal record of accountability for the protection of the client and the nurse. This means that documentation provides evidence of the assessments and interventions that have been undertaken by the nurse and can be used to defend the nurse in case of a lawsuit or a complaint. Documentation also supports the provision of safe, high-quality patient care by facilitating continuity of care and communication among health care providers.

Choice B is wrong because it is incomplete and misleading. Documentation supports confidentiality and privacy, but it should never be shared without the client’s consent or a legal authority.

Choice C is wrong because it is too narrow. Documentation provides continuous reference for all care providers to refer to, but it also has other purposes such as quality improvement, research, education and legal protection.

Choice D is wrong because it is inaccurate. Documentation does not provide a framework for clients rights, but rather reflects how the nurse respects and upholds those rights in practice. Documentation also records if clients rights are violated, but this is not the main rationale for documentation.