Which client should most appropriately be assigned to an obstetric-postpartum nurse during a disaster?

The most appropriate client to assign to an obstetric-postpartum nurse during a disaster is the pregnant woman in pelvic traction who is three months pregnant. This choice is optimal because an obstetric-postpartum nurse specializes in caring for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

During a disaster, it is crucial to prioritize patient care based on the specific needs of each patient. The pregnant client requires specialized care that includes monitoring for any complications related to her pregnancy, understanding fetal health, and providing education about pregnancy-specific concerns. The training and knowledge of an obstetric-postpartum nurse make them best suited to address any issues related to pregnancy that may arise, particularly in a high-stress situation like a disaster.

In comparison, the other clients present needs that may not align as closely with the expertise of a postpartum nurse. For instance, a male client with an indwelling urinary catheter may require urological expertise, while the older adult woman with herpes zoster may need care focused on infection control and pain management. Lastly, the male admitted for psychiatric issues requires specialized psychiatric care that falls outside the scope of an obstetric nurse’s training. Hence, the pregnant woman remains the most fitting option for assignment during a critical time.