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A licensed practical/vocational nurse (LP/VN) is caring for an older adult client on the geriatric psychiatric unit. The nurse is in a hurry and enters the client's room to provide the morning care, change his dressing, and get him dressed and walk him in the hall with assistance of one. The nurse has cared for him for days, and the client always spoke in a soft voice and was pleasant, but today the client started yelling and swinging at the nurse. Which is the best first action for the nurse to provide?

User Jeffhollan
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Final answer:

The nurse should ensure her own safety, document the incident, and collaborate with the healthcare team to address the situation.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this scenario, the best first action for the nurse to provide is to ensure her own safety and remove herself from the situation. The sudden change in behavior and aggression of the client may be due to a number of factors, such as confusion, agitation, or discomfort.

It's important for the nurse to not take the client's behavior personally and to remember that it's not a reflection of their professional abilities. The nurse should report the incident to the appropriate staff members and document the incident accurately.

After ensuring her own safety and documenting the incident, the nurse should collaborate with the healthcare team to assess the client's condition and determine the appropriate interventions or adjustments to the care plan to provide a safe and therapeutic environment for the client.

User Marlissa
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