A nurse is caring for a client who has end-stage cancer and is receiving chemotherapy. The client tells the nurse, "I want to discontinue treatment, but my children insist I continue." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• Infection: Poor glycemic control, indicated by an elevated hemoglobin A1c of 9.5%, leads to impaired immune function, delayed wound healing, and increased risk of postoperative infections. Chronic hyperglycemia promotes bacterial growth, reduces leukocyte function, and compromises vascular integrity, further predisposing the client to infections.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Postoperative immobility, increased coagulation, and endothelial injury increase DVT risk. However, BUN of 15 mg/dL is within the normal range and does not indicate dehydration or hemoconcentration, which would contribute to thrombus formation.
• Hypovolemia: Reduced blood volume typically presents with signs such as hypotension, tachycardia, and elevated BUN/creatinine ratio. Preoperative hypertension does not indicate hypovolemia and is more commonly associated with chronic vascular resistance rather than acute fluid loss.
• BUN of 15 mg/dL: A BUN level within the normal range does not suggest an increased risk for DVT or fluid imbalance. It primarily reflects renal function and hydration status, neither of which are significantly altered in this case.
• Preoperative hypertension: While chronic hypertension is a cardiovascular risk factor, it does not indicate hypovolemia, which would present with dehydration-related signs such as orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, and decreased urine output.
• Hemoglobin A1c: A value of 9.5% indicates poor long-term glycemic control, which impairs immune function and slows wound healing. Elevated glucose levels reduce neutrophil function, impair macrophage activity, and increase oxidative stress, all of which contribute to a heightened infection risk.

A. Inspect the mouth once each week for sores: Frequent oral assessments are necessary, especially after a partial glossectomy, to monitor for infection, healing complications, or signs of malignancy recurrence. Checking only once per week is insufficient for early detection of issues.

B. Use text or pictures to communicate needs postoperatively: A partial glossectomy can impair speech, making communication difficult. Using alternative methods such as writing, text, or pictures helps ensure effective communication, especially in the immediate postoperative period.

C. Rinse with an alcohol-based mouthwash instead of brushing: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can cause irritation and delay healing. Instead, gentle oral hygiene with a soft toothbrush and non-alcoholic rinses like saline or chlorhexidine is recommended to maintain cleanliness without irritation.

D. Increase intake of dense, high-fiber foods: Soft, easy-to-swallow foods are preferred after a partial glossectomy to prevent irritation and facilitate healing. Dense, high-fiber foods can be difficult to chew and may cause discomfort, increasing the risk of aspiration or delayed wound healing.