A nurse is caring for a client who has impaired speech.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Constipation in a client on bedrest is a common issue, and one of the primary interventions is to increase fluid intake. Adequate hydration helps soften the stool, making it easier to pass, and can prevent constipation. This intervention is based on sound nursing principles and is the most appropriate choice.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the client to drink cold fluids is not a specific intervention for constipation. While staying hydrated is important, the temperature of the fluids is not as relevant to relieving constipation as the overall fluid intake.

Choice C rationale:

Requesting a prescription for mineral oil is not the first-line intervention for constipation. Mineral oil can have potential side effects and should only be used when other measures have failed. Increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber are typically the initial steps taken.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the client on a low-fiber diet is not an appropriate intervention for constipation. A low-fiber diet can exacerbate constipation by reducing the bulk and softness of the stool. This choice is counterproductive to addressing the issue.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse is demonstrating the concept of disease prevention during a blood pressure screening for a client with a family history of hypertension. Disease prevention involves actions taken to reduce the risk of developing a disease or condition. In this case, the nurse is actively screening for hypertension, a condition that the client may be at risk for due to their family history. By identifying elevated blood pressure early, the nurse can help prevent the progression of hypertension and its associated complications.

Choice B rationale:

Holistic health is a comprehensive approach to healthcare that considers the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of an individual. While holistic health is an essential aspect of nursing care, the scenario described in the question focuses on a specific action related to blood pressure screening, which is better categorized as disease prevention.

Choice C rationale:

Health promotion involves activities that aim to enhance a person's well-being and quality of life, such as encouraging healthy behaviors and lifestyle choices. While blood pressure screening can be a part of health promotion, the primary goal in the scenario is to identify and prevent hypertension, which aligns more with disease prevention.

Choice D rationale:

Health education refers to the process of providing information and education to individuals to help them make informed decisions about their health. While health education may be a part of the overall nursing care provided to the client, the primary action in the scenario is to perform a blood pressure screening, which is a proactive measure to prevent disease, rather than solely focused on educating the client.