Which client should a nurse recommend for discharge to accommodate an incoming critical patient?

Recommending discharge for a client who had a total knee arthroplasty 1 week ago is appropriate because their recovery timeline indicates that they are likely stable enough to be discharged. Typically, following elective surgical procedures like a total knee arthroplasty, patients are encouraged to engage in rehabilitation and follow-up care, but this is usually done in an outpatient setting after a short period in the hospital.

On the other hand, a client recovering from a heart attack requires close monitoring and ongoing treatment, as this condition can be unpredictable and complications may arise. A client who had gallbladder surgery just 3 days ago is still within a critical recovery phase where complications can occur, necessitating hospital observation. Lastly, the client receiving IV antibiotics for an infection is typically under treatment for a serious condition that requires medical supervision to ensure infection control and monitor for potential adverse reactions to the therapy.

Thus, the client recovering from knee surgery is the most suitable candidate for discharge, allowing for bed space to accommodate the incoming critically ill patient.