Which client should the nurse assign to the room closest to the nurses' station?

The choice to assign a client who sustained a head injury and is having periods of confusion to a room closest to the nurses' station is based on the need for close monitoring and quick access to medical support. Clients experiencing confusion may be at risk for disorientation, falls, and other safety concerns, making it essential for staff to observe them frequently and respond promptly if their condition changes.

Being near the nurses' station allows healthcare providers to keep a better eye on the client, ensuring that they receive immediate assistance if needed. This proximity also facilitates more effective communication between the nursing staff and the client, enhancing the overall level of care.

In contrast, the other clients do not present the same level of monitoring need. The client with a broken leg may require assistance but typically does not need the same level of constant surveillance as someone experiencing confusion. Similarly, the client recovering from a minor surgical procedure and the client who is coherent after a head injury also have less immediate risk compared to the confused individual. Placing the confused client closest to the nursing staff helps ensure their safety and well-being during a critical period of recovery and stabilization.