A charge nurse in a long-term care facility is developing an educational program for staff members about common physiological changes in older adults. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

A) Rotating the earmold forward when inserting the hearing aid is a correct technique. This ensures a proper fit and helps to position the hearing aid comfortably in the ear canal, which can enhance the effectiveness and comfort of the device.

B) Cleaning the hearing aid with alcohol swabs can damage the delicate components of the device. Instead, hearing aids should be cleaned with a dry cloth or a soft brush specifically designed for this purpose to avoid damaging the hearing aid.

C) Turning the hearing aid on before inserting it may result in feedback or a whistling sound. It's usually recommended to insert the hearing aid first and then turn it on to avoid any discomfort or unwanted noise.

D) If the hearing aid whistles, it is not typically related to the battery. Whistling is often caused by improper fit, earwax buildup, or feedback issues. Changing the battery is unlikely to resolve the whistling problem and is not the recommended solution.

A) "You will be allowed to drive yourself home within 6 hours following the procedure."This statement is incorrect. After an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), the patient is typically sedated, and the sedation can affect their alertness, coordination, and judgment. It is generally recommended that patients arrange for someone else to drive them home. It is unsafe for the patient to drive themselves after sedation, even if they feel alert. The nurse should instruct the client to have someone accompany them to the procedure and drive them home afterward.

B) "You might experience a hoarse voice for several days following the procedure."This statement is correct. A hoarse voice is a common and expected side effect after an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, as the procedure involves passing a flexible tube (endoscope) through the mouth and throat. The endoscope may cause irritation to the vocal cords or the lining of the throat, leading to a hoarse voice that can last for a few days. This is a normal, transient effect and should be explained to the patient in advance so they are not alarmed.

C) "You can have a clear liquid diet for breakfast prior to the procedure."This statement is incorrect. For most procedures like EGD, patients are typically instructed to fast for at least 6 to 8 hours prior to the procedure to ensure the stomach is empty. Having food or liquids before the procedure may increase the risk of aspiration or interfere with the examination. The nurse should educate the client to follow fasting instructions and avoid consuming any food or liquids, including clear liquids, as per the healthcare provider's guidelines.

D) "You should not take any of your routine medications until after the procedure is complete."

This statement is generally incorrect. Many patients are instructed to continue taking routine medications, especially if they are vital for managing chronic conditions, unless otherwise directed by the healthcare provider. In some cases, medications such as anticoagulants, aspirin, or certain blood pressure medications may need to be withheld temporarily before the procedure. However, the nurse should clarify with the healthcare provider which medications the client should stop or continue taking before the procedure. The patient should not withhold medications on their own without proper guidance.