A charge nurse is observing a staff nurse performing wound irrigation for a client who has a pressure injury. Which of the following actions by the staff nurse indicates an understanding of the procedure?

Choice A Reason:

Airborne precautions are necessary for clients with tuberculosis (TB) because TB is an airborne disease. It is transmitted through tiny droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These precautions include placing the client in a negative pressure room, using N95 respirators for healthcare workers, and ensuring the client wears a surgical mask when outside their room. These measures help prevent the spread of TB to others.

Choice B Reason:

Protective precautions, also known as reverse isolation, are used to protect immunocompromised patients from infections. These precautions are not appropriate for a client with TB, as the primary concern is preventing the spread of TB from the infected client to others, not protecting the client from external infections.

Choice C Reason:

Contact precautions are used for infections that are spread by direct or indirect contact with the patient or their environment, such as MRSA or C. difficile. TB is not spread through contact but through airborne particles, so contact precautions are not sufficient for preventing the transmission of TB.

Choice D Reason:

Droplet precautions are used for diseases that are spread through large respiratory droplets, such as influenza or pertussis. While TB is a respiratory disease, it is spread through much smaller airborne particles that can remain suspended in the air for longer periods, making airborne precautions necessary instead of droplet precautions.

Choice A Reason:

Telling the client to ask their provider if they recommend traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a cautious approach, but it may not fully address the client’s interest in exploring alternative treatments. While it is important for the client to discuss their treatment options with their provider, the nurse can take a more proactive role by facilitating access to TCM practitioners.

Choice B Reason:

Suggesting that the client try the prescribed medication before choosing an alternative may come across as dismissive of the client’s preferences. It is important to respect the client’s autonomy and support their informed decision-making. Encouraging the client to explore TCM while also considering the prescribed medication can be a more balanced approach.

Choice C Reason:

Stating that the FDA regulates traditional Chinese medicine is inaccurate. The FDA does not regulate TCM in the same way it regulates conventional pharmaceuticals. TCM practices and products are subject to different regulatory standards, and it is important for the nurse to provide accurate information about the regulatory status of TCM.

Choice D Reason:

Offering to arrange a referral to a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine is an appropriate and supportive response. This approach respects the client’s interest in TCM and facilitates access to qualified practitioners who can provide safe and effective care. It also ensures that the client receives comprehensive information about their treatment options.