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 is incorrect because submerging the client in a cold bath can cause hypothermia, shock, or infection. Cold water can lower the body temperature and blood pressure, which can impair circulation and organ function. Cold water can also introduce bacteria or contaminants into the open wounds. The nurse should use cool water or saline to gently irrigate the burned areas and then cover them with sterile dressings.

Choice B Reason: This is correct because administering oxygen can help the client breathe better and prevent hypoxia. Burns to the face, neck, or chest can cause swelling or damage to the airway, which can impair gas exchange and oxygen delivery. Oxygen can also reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur from inhaling smoke or fumes.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because restricting fluids can worsen dehydration and shock. Burns can cause significant fluid and electrolyte loss through evaporation and leakage from damaged capillaries. This can lead to hypovolemia, which is low blood volume, and hypotension, which is low blood pressure. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, urine output, and weight, and administer intravenous fluids as ordered.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because providing a meal high in fiber can cause abdominal discomfort or diarrhea. Burns can cause paralytic ileus, which is a temporary loss of bowel function due to nerve damage or inflammation. This can impair digestion and absorption of food and cause nausea, vomiting, or constipation. The nurse should assess the client's bowel sounds and provide enteral or parenteral nutrition as ordered.

Choice E Reason: This is correct because assessing airway is a priority nursing action for a client with burns. As mentioned above, burns to the face, neck, or chest can compromise the airway and cause respiratory distress or failure. The nurse should assess the client's level of consciousness, breathing rate and pattern, oxygen saturation, and signs of inhalation injury, such as sooty sputum, singed nasal hairs, or hoarseness. The nurse should also be prepared to assist with intubation or tracheostomy if needed.

Choice F Reason: This is correct because applying ice to burned areas can help reduce pain and swelling. Ice can constrict blood vessels and numb nerve endings, which can decrease inflammation and sensation. However, ice should be applied for no more than 15 minutes at a time and wrapped in a cloth or towel to prevent frostbite or tissue damage. Ice should not be applied to large or deep burns.

Choice A Reason: Reporting itching if it becomes bothersome is part of client teaching, as it may indicate inflammation or infection of the ear canal. External otitis is also known as swimmer's ear, as it can be caused by water trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing.

Choice B Reason: Using earplugs when swimming is part of client teaching, as it can prevent water from entering and irritating the ear canal. External otitis can be prevented by keeping the ear dry and avoiding trauma or foreign objects.

Choice C Reason: This is the correct choice. Inserting a cotton-tip applicator to remove excess wax is not part of client teaching, as it can damage or scratch the ear canal and increase the risk of infection. Wax helps protect and lubricate the ear canal and should not be removed unless it causes hearing impairment or discomfort.

Choice D Reason: Using a hairdryer set to low, 6 inches away from ear is part of client teaching, as it can help dry the ear canal after swimming or bathing. External otitis can be treated by applying warm compresses, using topical antibiotics or antifungals, and taking pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs.