A nurse is caring for a client who is 1 day postoperative following an appendectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse report?

The correct answer is choice C. Place white tape on the edges of stairs.

Choice A rationale:

While having the furnace inspected is important for safety, it should be done annually, not every two years.Regular inspections help prevent carbon monoxide leaks and ensure the furnace is functioning properly.

Choice B rationale:

Running wires and cords under carpeting is a safety hazard. It can lead to overheating and potentially cause a fire.Additionally, it creates a tripping hazard.

Choice C rationale:

Placing white tape on the edges of stairs is a recommended safety measure.It increases visibility, especially for older adults who may have vision impairments, reducing the risk of falls.

Choice D rationale:

Placing area rugs on wooden floors can be dangerous as they can slip and cause falls.If area rugs are used, they should be secured with non-slip backing or tape.

The correct answer is choice D. Allow frequent rest periods.

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging fluids is not appropriate for a client with heart failure. Clients with heart failure often experience fluid overload due to the heart’s inability to pump effectively, leading to fluid retention.Encouraging additional fluid intake can exacerbate this condition, worsening symptoms such as edema and shortness of breath.

Choice B rationale:

Measuring vital signs every 8 hours may not be frequent enough for a client with heart failure, especially if they are experiencing acute symptoms.More frequent monitoring is often necessary to detect changes in the client’s condition promptly and to manage symptoms effectively.

Choice C rationale:

Obtaining weight weekly is not sufficient for a client with heart failure. Daily weight monitoring is crucial as it helps in detecting fluid retention early.Sudden weight gain can indicate worsening heart failure and the need for adjustments in treatment.

Choice D rationale:

Allowing frequent rest periods is essential for clients with heart failure. These clients often experience fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance due to reduced cardiac output.Frequent rest periods help in managing fatigue and preventing overexertion, which can worsen heart failure symptoms.