Which additional action should the nurse take when performing a referral for client care?

When performing a referral for client care, determining what the referral recommends for client care is crucial. This action ensures that the nurse fully understands the specific needs and recommendations that come from the specialist or the referral source. It allows the nurse to adequately prepare the client for what to expect, communicate important details to the client, and coordinate care effectively with other members of the healthcare team.

Understanding the recommendations enhances the continuity of care and supports comprehensive treatment planning. It also enables the nurse to address any questions or concerns the client might have regarding the referral. This proactive approach fosters a collaborative environment that prioritizes the client’s health and well-being, ensuring that all aspects of their care are addressed appropriately.

In contrast, failing to communicate details about the referral would undermine the quality of care and might lead to confusion for the client. Discussing the referral with other clients could breach confidentiality and violate ethical standards. Focusing solely on physical therapy options limits the scope of care and may not align with the holistic needs of the client as per the referral guidance. Thus, the best course of action is to ascertain and understand the specific recommendations for care that the referral involves.