A nurse is preparing to give change-of-shift report on a client who is 2 days postoperative following a total knee arthroscopy. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the report?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Admission vital signs: While admission vital signs are part of the client’s history, they are not usually relevant for change-of-shift reporting unless there has been a trend or abnormal finding that impacts current care. Reporting outdated vitals does not inform immediate clinical decisions. B. Steps required for dressing change: Detailed procedural steps are not typically included in shift reports. The report should focus on current status, recent changes, and ongoing care needs rather than teaching or step-by-step instructions. C. Time of last pain medication: Reporting the time of the last analgesic dose is important for continuity of care. It helps the incoming nurse assess pain control, schedule subsequent doses, and anticipate the client’s comfort needs. D. Preferred bath time: While client preferences are helpful for planning care, they are not critical information for clinical decision-making during a shift report. This detail can be communicated during routine care rather than formal handoff.