What is an appropriate action for a nurse when a patient has persistent nausea?

Monitoring vital signs and assessing for other symptoms is crucial when a patient reports persistent nausea. This approach allows the nurse to gather comprehensive data that may help identify the underlying cause of the nausea. Persistent nausea can be a symptom of various conditions, ranging from benign gastrointestinal issues to more serious disorders. By checking vital signs, the nurse can look for indications of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or systemic infections that may be contributing factors.

In addition, assessing for other symptoms helps to build a clearer clinical picture. For instance, if the patient is also experiencing vomiting, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel movements, it may guide the nurse to different potential diagnoses or necessary interventions. This holistic assessment is a key component of patient care and is essential for determining the most appropriate response, which could include notifying the healthcare provider, initiating treatment, or providing supportive care.

In contrast, other actions like administering an antiemetic immediately might be appropriate after a thorough assessment; however, they should not be the first step without understanding potential underlying issues. Similarly, encouraging heavy meals or suggesting soda could further complicate the patient’s condition without addressing the root cause of the nausea. Thus, thorough monitoring and assessment are foundational to ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.