A client with oral cancer is receiving radiotherapy (RT) prior to surgery. Which intervention should the nurse teach the client to implement in managing mucositis related to RT?

Choice A reason: While streaks of bright red blood in the stoma can be concerning, it is not necessarily an immediate emergency. It may indicate minor trauma or irritation, but it does not require immediate surgical intervention unless accompanied by other symptoms.

Choice B reason: The absence of bowel sounds in the left lower quadrant can indicate a lack of intestinal activity, which may be a concern, but it is not an immediate surgical emergency. It requires monitoring and further assessment.

Choice C reason: Brown, solid fecal matter is a normal finding and indicates that the colostomy is functioning properly. This is not a cause for immediate concern.

Choice D reason: The stoma mucosa being purple in color is a critical finding that requires immediate reporting to the surgeon. Purple stoma mucosa can indicate compromised blood flow or ischemia, which can lead to tissue necrosis and serious complications if not addressed promptly.

Choice A reason: The client can now speak in full sentences without pausing, which indicates that the interventions were successful. This improvement suggests that the client's airways are less obstructed and he is able to breathe more easily. The ability to speak in full sentences is a key indicator of improved respiratory function and is often used as a measure of asthma control.

Choice B reason: Respirations at 16 breaths per minute indicate a successful intervention. This is within the normal range for adults and suggests that the client's breathing has stabilized. Before the intervention, the client’s respiratory rate was 28 breaths per minute, which is elevated and indicative of respiratory distress.

Choice C reason: Blood pressure at 122/84 mmHg does not indicate the success of the interventions. Blood pressure can be influenced by many factors and may not directly correlate with respiratory improvements. While the patient's blood pressure has decreased slightly, this change is not a definitive indicator of successful asthma treatment.

Choice D reason: The client reporting, "It’s a lot easier to breathe now," indicates successful interventions. This subjective report aligns with the clinical improvements observed in the client’s breathing and overall respiratory function. The client's perception of relief is an important aspect of assessing treatment efficacy.

Choice E reason: Heart rate at 105 beats per minute does not indicate the success of the interventions. Although the heart rate has decreased from 116 to 105 beats per minute, it is still elevated and may not directly reflect the improvement in respiratory status. Elevated heart rate could be due to anxiety or other factors unrelated to asthma management.

Choice F reason: Lung sounds being clear indicates successful interventions. Clear lung sounds suggest that the bronchospasm and airway obstruction have been relieved, which is a positive outcome of the administered medications and oxygen therapy. This objective finding is a strong indicator of improved respiratory function.