A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is experiencing manifestations of anxiety. The nurse should recognize which of the following statements about the neurophysiologic manifestations of anxiety as correct?

Choice A reason: A Penrose drain is an open, passive drainage system that relies on gravity and capillary action, not suction. Connecting it to suction would negate its design, potentially pulling tissue into the drain or causing localized trauma, which is contraindicated for this specific type of device.

Choice B reason: A Penrose drain does not have a collection device like a Jackson-Pratt or Hemovac drain. It is an open system that allows drainage to flow directly onto the dressing. Therefore, it is impossible to empty a device that does not exist, making this action clinically irrelevant.

Choice C reason: A split or perforated gauze is used to provide a clean, absorbent barrier around the exit site of the drain. This protects the periwound skin from the corrosive effects of the exudate and helps maintain a clean environment, reducing the risk of skin maceration and localized infection.

Choice D reason: When cleaning any surgical site, the nurse must work from the cleanest area to the dirtiest area. The correct technique is to clean the drain site first (cleanest) and then move outward in a circular motion toward the surrounding skin (dirtiest), not from outside to inside.

Choice A reason: Data gathering regarding the home situation is a primary objective during the orientation and working phases of the nurse-client relationship. This information is necessary for the initial development of the plan of care and should not be left for the termination phase, which is dedicated to summarizing care.

Choice B reason: The termination phase is characterized by reviewing the progress made during the relationship. Summarizing accomplished treatment goals provides the client with a sense of achievement, acknowledges the work done, and prepares them for the transition to self-management or the next level of care after the therapeutic relationship concludes.

Choice C reason: Providing personal contact information is a severe violation of professional boundaries. The nurse-client relationship must remain strictly professional and time-limited. Encouraging the client to contact the nurse personally after the conclusion of the professional relationship is unethical and disrupts the client’s ability to use official support systems.

Choice D reason: Introducing the concept of discharge planning should occur much earlier, typically during the initial orientation and throughout the working phases. Waiting until the termination phase to discuss discharge is inappropriate, as the plan should have been well-established, evaluated, and transitioned into the patient's daily life by this stage.