A client with a fractured femur is placed in Buck's traction to immobilize the fracture. When transporting this client to another room, how should the practical nurse (PN) handle the traction?

Choice A reason: Providing reassurance that hair loss is not usually permanent offers the client some comfort during a challenging time. Informing her that the color and texture may change when it grows back prepares her for potential differences in her hair's appearance post-chemotherapy. This response acknowledges the temporary nature of chemotherapy-induced hair loss while also being honest about the possibility of changes, which helps manage the client's expectations effectively.
Choice B reason: Stating that "people with cancer react differently to chemotherapy" is true, but it is not the most supportive or informative response. It may leave the client feeling uncertain and anxious about the outcome. Providing more specific information about hair regrowth, as in choice A, is more helpful in addressing the client's concerns and providing reassurance.
Choice C reason: While acknowledging that wigs are available is practical, focusing on the possibility that hair might not grow back can be disheartening for the client. It is important to offer hope and positivity where possible, and emphasizing the usual pattern of hair regrowth, as in choice A, is a more supportive approach. If the client does have concerns about wigs, this can be discussed separately.
Choice D reason: Indicating that hair regrowth depends on the amount of drug received is somewhat accurate but lacks the reassurance and positivity provided in choice A. It is important to give the client a clearer understanding that, in most cases, hair loss from chemotherapy is temporary, and hair will generally grow back. This helps alleviate some of the stress associated with the treatment.

Choice A reason: Lymph nodes are important components of the immune system and play a crucial role in filtering harmful substances and housing lymphocytes. While HIV/AIDS can affect lymph nodes, it is not the primary target of the virus.
Choice B reason: The spleen is another vital organ in the immune system that helps filter blood and fight infections. However, it is not the specific target of HIV.
Choice C reason: T cells, specifically CD4+ T cells, are the main target of HIV (the virus that causes AIDS). HIV infects and destroys these cells, leading to a weakened immune system. The progressive loss of CD4+ T cells impairs the body's ability to fight off infections and certain cancers, which is characteristic of AIDS.
Choice D reason: B cells are responsible for producing antibodies and play a key role in the humoral immune response. While HIV/AIDS can indirectly impact B cell function due to the overall compromised immune system, B cells are not the primary cells affected by the virus.