A client presents with a temperature of 100°F (37.8°C) and reports difficulty breathing. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

Choice A reason: Open-angle glaucoma involves chronic optic nerve damage due to impaired aqueous humor drainage, not a reversible “angle” change. Medications reduce intraocular pressure but cannot restore anatomical angles. This response is inaccurate, as the condition requires lifelong management to prevent further nerve damage and vision loss.

Choice B reason: Open-angle glaucoma requires lifelong medication to maintain normal intraocular pressure, preventing optic nerve damage. Medications like prostaglandin analogs or beta-blockers enhance aqueous humor outflow or reduce production, controlling pressure long-term. This is the accurate response, as sustained pressure management is essential to preserve vision in chronic glaucoma.

Choice C reason: Reducing excess pressure is a goal of glaucoma treatment, but open-angle glaucoma is chronic, requiring ongoing medication even after pressure is lowered. This response is incomplete, as it suggests a temporary treatment, whereas lifelong therapy is needed to prevent pressure spikes and progressive optic nerve damage.

Choice D reason: Open-angle glaucoma is typically painless and not associated with swelling. Medications target intraocular pressure, not pain or inflammation. This response is inaccurate, as it misaligns with the pathophysiology of glaucoma, which involves optic nerve damage from pressure, not inflammatory or painful symptoms.

Choice A reason: Delegating oral care to UAP is appropriate for routine hygiene in AIDS patients with candidiasis. Leaving oral care solely to the nurse is unnecessary unless complex treatments are required. A soft-bristled toothbrush ensures safe, effective cleaning, supporting UAP involvement in standard oral hygiene.

Choice B reason: A soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal for oral care in candidiasis, as it gently cleans without traumatizing painful ulcers. In AIDS, oral hygiene reduces fungal load and discomfort. This instruction ensures safe, effective care by UAP, aligning with standard hygiene practices for mucosal infections.

Choice C reason: Sterile gloves are unnecessary for routine oral care, as candidiasis is not highly contagious in this context. Standard precautions, including clean gloves, suffice for UAP performing hygiene. Requiring sterile gloves is excessive, complicating care without added benefit compared to using a soft toothbrush.

Choice D reason: Mouthwash may irritate candidiasis ulcers, especially if alcohol-based, and is not the priority. Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush effectively cleans the mouth without causing trauma. Mouthwash is secondary and requires nurse oversight to ensure compatibility with the client’s condition, unlike brushing.