What nursing intervention should be avoided for an older adult client experiencing night agitation postoperatively?

The nursing intervention that should be avoided for an older adult client experiencing night agitation postoperatively is to request an order for a sedative medication. This approach can be problematic for several reasons.

Firstly, older adults often have altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, which means they can be more sensitive to medications, including sedatives. The use of sedative medications can lead to increased risks of sedation, confusion, and even respiratory depression. Additionally, sedatives can interfere with the older adult's recovery process and may increase the risk of falls or other complications.

Furthermore, managing night agitation by pharmacological means does not address the underlying causes of the agitation, which can be related to pain, anxiety, discomfort, or environmental factors. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as creating a calm environment or engaging the client in conversation, can be more effective in helping to soothe agitation without the risks associated with medications.

In summary, while sedative medications may seem like a quick fix, they can pose significant risks for older adult patients, making it a less than ideal intervention in this situation.