Before visiting a new home care client, what action should the nurse take first?

Before visiting a new home care client, what action should the nurse take first?

• A. Schedule the visit
• B. Review the referral form
• C. Call the client
• D. Prepare your transportation

Answer: (B)

Reviewing the referral form is the crucial first step because it provides the essential information you need to understand why the client is being cared for, what health conditions are involved, what medications or treatments are in place, and any safety concerns or special instructions. This upfront review lets you plan the assessment and prioritize what to address during the first visit, ensure you bring the right supplies, and confirm you have the appropriate authorization and goals in mind before you meet the client. Scheduling the visit, calling the client, and arranging transportation are all important actions, but they depend on knowing the client’s needs and the scope of care from the referral. Without that information, you might schedule inappropriately, contact the client without permission or relevance, or plan transportation for services that aren’t yet clarified.

Reviewing the referral form is the crucial first step because it provides the essential information you need to understand why the client is being cared for, what health conditions are involved, what medications or treatments are in place, and any safety concerns or special instructions. This upfront review lets you plan the assessment and prioritize what to address during the first visit, ensure you bring the right supplies, and confirm you have the appropriate authorization and goals in mind before you meet the client.

Scheduling the visit, calling the client, and arranging transportation are all important actions, but they depend on knowing the client’s needs and the scope of care from the referral. Without that information, you might schedule inappropriately, contact the client without permission or relevance, or plan transportation for services that aren’t yet clarified.