A nurse is caring for a 75-year-old client with aspiration pneumonia. The nurse should recognize what age-related change can contribute to the development of aspiration pneumonia?

A: Pain at the incision site is expected after surgery and does not necessarily indicate a complication. It is important to assess the level and nature of the pain, but pain alone is not a definitive sign of a wound healing complication.

B: Itching at the incision site can be a normal part of the healing process as the wound closes and new tissue forms. While it can be uncomfortable, it is not typically a sign of a complication.

C: An approximated incision means the edges of the wound are close together and healing well. This is a positive sign and indicates that the wound is healing properly.

D: A mass, bluish in color at the incision site, may indicate a hematoma or infection, both of which are complications of wound healing. This finding requires immediate medical attention to address the underlying issue.

A: Checking the client’s skin every 8 hours is not frequent enough to prevent skin breakdown in a client with urinary incontinence. More frequent checks are necessary to identify and address any issues promptly.

B: Cleaning the client’s skin and perineum with hot water can cause skin irritation and dryness. It is better to use lukewarm water and gentle cleansers to maintain skin integrity.

C: Applying a moisture barrier ointment to the client’s skin is an effective way to prevent skin breakdown. The ointment creates a protective barrier that helps keep moisture away from the skin, reducing the risk of irritation and breakdown.

D: Requesting a prescription for the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter is not the best first-line intervention for preventing skin breakdown. Catheters carry a risk of infection and should be used only when absolutely necessary.