A home health nurse is teaching an older adult client who just had cataract surgery. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A Reason: This choice is incorrect. Inability to read is not a finding that the nurse should expect in a client who has meningitis, but rather a possible finding in a client who has a stroke or a brain tumor. Meningitis does not affect the language or cognitive functions, but rather the meninges or the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.

Choice B Reason: This choice is incorrect. Bruising around the eyes is not a finding that the nurse should expect in a client who has meningitis, but rather a possible finding in a client who has a basilar skull fracture or a head trauma. Meningitis does not cause bleeding or bruising, but rather inflammation and infection of the meninges.

Choice C Reason: This is the correct choice. A throbbing headache is a finding that the nurse should expect in a client who has meningitis, as it is one of the most common and characteristic symptoms. A throbbing headache is caused by increased intracranial pressure and irritation of the meninges due to inflammation and infection.

Choice D Reason: This choice is incorrect. A heart rate of 50 is not a finding that the nurse should expect in a client who has meningitis, but rather a possible finding in a client who has bradycardia or a slow heart rate. Meningitis does not affect the heart rate, but rather the temperature and blood pressure. The nurse should expect to see fever and hypotension in a client who has meningitis.

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because observing the client swallowing small sips of water before assisting with feeding may not reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Water is a thin liquid that can easily enter the lungs if the client has impaired swallowing or cough reflexes. The nurse should assess the client's need for thickened liquids or pureed foods and use a swallow screening tool to determine the appropriate consistency and amount of food and fluids.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because turning on the television for the client during meals may increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Television can distract the client from focusing on chewing and swallowing and cause them to eat too fast or too much. The nurse should provide a quiet and calm environment for the client during meals and encourage them to eat slowly and carefully.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because instructing the client to tilt their head back while swallowing may increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Tilting the head back can open the airway and allow food or fluids to enter the lungs. The nurse should instruct the client to tilt their head forward or tuck their chin while swallowing, which can close the airway and prevent aspiration.

Choice D Reason: This is correct because sitting the client upright 90 degrees then assisting the client with feeding can reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Sitting upright can help gravity move food and fluids down the esophagus and away from the lungs. The nurse should also keep the client upright for at least 30 minutes after eating and drinking to prevent regurgitation and aspiration.