A client who has inoperable cancer tells the nurse that she does not want to pursue the recommended treatment. She asks if the provider can force her to have the treatment. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

Answer: C. Change the perineal pad with each void.

Rationale:

A) Cleanse the perineal area from back to front: Cleansing from back to front is not recommended as it increases the risk of introducing bacteria from the anal area to the perineal wound, potentially leading to infection. The correct technique is front-to-back cleansing to prevent contamination.

B) Wash the perineal area with povidone-iodine twice daily: Povidone-iodine is not typically recommended for regular perineal care postpartum, as it can disrupt normal flora and potentially irritate the healing tissues. Using warm water and mild soap is safer for cleansing the area.

C) Change the perineal pad with each void: Changing the perineal pad with each void helps maintain cleanliness and reduces moisture in the perineal area, decreasing the risk of infection and promoting comfort during the healing process of an episiotomy.

D) Wipe the perineal area with a soft cloth: Wiping the area can disrupt the stitches and may cause discomfort. Instead, clients are usually advised to gently pat dry or use a squirt bottle to cleanse, which reduces pressure on the healing tissue.

b. Keep suction equipment at the client's bedside.

The nurse should plan to include keeping suction equipment at the client's bedside as an intervention for a client with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease can cause dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and an increased risk of aspiration. Having suction equipment readily available allows for prompt intervention in case of choking or aspiration episodes, ensuring the client's safety.

Explanation for the other options:

a. Restrict the client's fluid intake: Restricting the client's fluid intake is not typically indicated in the care of a client with Parkinson's disease. Adequate hydration is important for overall health and well-being. However, specific fluid restrictions may be necessary in certain situations, such as if the client has coexisting conditions like heart failure or kidney disease, which should be assessed and determined by the healthcare provider.

c. Instruct the client to look down when ambulating: In Parkinson's disease, individuals often experience a forward-flexed posture and a shuffling gait. Instructing the client to look down when ambulating is not an appropriate intervention. Instead, the nurse should encourage the client to maintain an upright posture, take smaller steps, and focus on taking deliberate and controlled movements to promote stability and reduce the risk of falls.

d. Position the client supine after eating: Positioning the client supine after eating is not recommended for a client with Parkinson's disease. This position can increase the risk of aspiration, as it may promote reflux and regurgitation of stomach contents. Instead, the nurse should advise the client to maintain an upright position, such as sitting in a chair or using a recliner with appropriate head support, to aid digestion and reduce the risk of aspiration.