A nurse is caring for a client who has pneumonia.

Exhibit 1

Medication Administration Record

Day 1, 1500:

Cefazolin 500 mg every 12 hr IV

Dexamethasone 15 mg every 6 hr IV

Day 3, 1200:

Discontinue dexamethasone 15 mg every 6 hr IV Prednisone 40 mg PO daily

Day 4, 1500:

Discontinue cefazolin 500 mg every 12 hr IV
The nurse is providing discharge teaching for the client and their caregiver. Which of the following information should the nurse include? Select all that apply.

A. Grab bars are installed in the shower: Installing grab bars in the shower is a safety measure that helps prevent falls and assists the client in safely maneuvering in the bathroom. This finding indicates a safe environment and does not require intervention.

B. The hot water heater is set to 47°C (117°F): The hot water heater set at 47°C (117°F) poses a scalding risk, especially for older adults with decreased sensation or mobility issues. The recommended safe temperature for hot water heaters is typically below 49°C (120°F) to prevent burns. Therefore, the nurse should intervene to adjust the temperature to a safer level.

C. There is an area rug covering a tile floor.

Area rugs covering tile floors can pose a significant fall risk, especially for older adults with osteoporosis, who are more susceptible to fractures. The rug can slip or bunch up, leading to trips and falls. Therefore, the nurse should intervene to remove the area rug or secure it firmly to the floor to prevent accidents.

D. Prescriptions are stored in a medication organizer: Storing prescriptions in a medication organizer promotes medication adherence and organization, which is beneficial for older adults managing multiple medications. This finding indicates good medication management and does not require intervention.

A. Urinary catheter care:

While urinary catheter care is important for maintaining urinary hygiene and preventing urinary tract infections, it is not as urgent as addressing respiratory needs. If the client is stable and not experiencing acute urinary retention or other urinary complications requiring immediate intervention, urinary catheter care can be performed after addressing respiratory concerns.

B. Wound irrigation:

Wound irrigation is typically performed to clean and debride wounds, promoting healing and preventing infection. While wound care is essential for preventing complications, it is not as urgent as ensuring adequate respiratory function, particularly in a client with an artificial airway requiring suctioning.

C. Enteral feeding:

Enteral feeding is crucial for providing nutrition to clients who cannot consume adequate nutrients orally. However, initiating enteral feeding can wait until the client's respiratory needs are addressed, as the immediate priority is to ensure effective breathing and oxygenation.

D. Endotracheal suctioning

Endotracheal suctioning is a critical procedure performed to clear secretions from the airway, ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation in patients with artificial airways such as endotracheal tubes. Maintaining a patent airway is a fundamental aspect of patient care, and suctioning helps prevent airway obstruction, hypoxia, and respiratory distress. Therefore, it takes precedence over other procedures in ensuring the client's respiratory stability and preventing potential complications.