A nurse is caring for a client who has an IV in the left forearm and whose infusion pump has alarmed several times. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A reason:

"will keep my left arm flexed at the elbow as much as possible": This statement is incorrect because after a mastectomy, it's important to promote full range of motion in the affected arm to prevent complications like contractures and lymphedema.

Choice B reason:

“will have to wait 2 months before additional saline can be added to my breast expander" Typically, the process of adding saline to a breast expander begins much sooner, often within a few weeks after surgery, depending on the individual’s healing progress and the surgeon’s protocol.

Choice C reason:

"should expect less than 25 ml of secretions per day in the drainage devices":After a mastectomy, drainage devices are often placed to prevent fluid accumulation. The client should be aware that once the drainage decreases to less than 25 ml per day, it may be an indication that the drain can be removed. This shows an understanding of what to monitor postoperatively.

Choice D reason:

"will perform strength-building arm exercises using a 15-pound weight": This statement is not appropriate, especially shortly after surgery. Gradual and gentle strength-building exercises are recommended, and using a 15-pound weight could be too strenuous and potentially harmful.

Choice A Reason:

Placing the client in a protective environment is not necessary for C. difficile gastroenteritis. Standard precautions, including diligent hand hygiene and appropriate personal protective equipment, are sufficient.

Choice B Reason:

Obtain a stool specimen with gloves is necessary. Obtaining a stool specimen with gloves is an appropriate nursing action when caring for a client with Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) gastroenteritis. C. difficile is a bacterium that can cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. It's important to follow infection control practices to prevent the spread of the bacteria.

Choice C Reason:

Cleaning surfaces with chlorhexidine is not the preferred disinfectant for C. difficile. Sporicidal agents, such as bleach-based solutions, are recommended to effectively kill the spores of C. difficile.

Choice D Reason:

Washing hands with alcohol-based hand rub is not sufficient for C. difficile. C. difficile spores are resistant to alcohol-based hand sanitizers, so using soap and water for handwashing is recommended to ensure proper removal of the spores.