A nurse is admitting a client who has a partial hearing loss. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because the nurse should not include this in the postoperative education to the client. The client should not drive home after glaucoma surgery, as they will have reduced vision and increased sensitivity to light in the operated eye. The nurse should advise the client to arrange for someone else to drive them home.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because the nurse should not include this in the postoperative education to the client. The client should not lay on the right side when going to bed, as this can put pressure on the operated eye and increase the risk of bleeding or infection. The nurse should advise the client to sleep on their back or on their left side.

Choice C reason: This is correct because the nurse should include this in the postoperative education to the client. The client should report flashing lights, as this can indicate a complication such as retinal detachment or vitreous hemorrhage. The nurse should instruct the client to call the provider immediately if they see flashing lights.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because the nurse should not include this in the postoperative education to the client. The client should not nap on their left side when they get home, as this can cause fluid accumulation and increased intraocular pressure in the operated eye. The nurse should advise the client to elevate their head at least 30 degrees when resting.

Choice E reason: This is correct because the nurse should include this in the postoperative education to
the client. The client should avoid housework like vacuuming, as this can cause bending, lifting, or straining that can increase intraocular pressure and affect wound healing. The nurse should advise the client to limit physical activity and follow the provider's instructions on when to resume normal activities.

Choice F reason: This is correct because the nurse should include this in the postoperative education to
the client. The client may see flashes of light in the operated eye, as this is a normal phenomenon caused by stimulation of the retina by gas bubbles or fluid shifts. The nurse should reassure the client that flashes of light are normal and will subside over time.

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.