A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to help prevent an incisional infection?

Choice A reason: While providing a newborn's first bath, there is minimal risk of exposure to infectious fluids that would necessitate eye protection. However, standard precautions should always be followed.

Choice B reason: When giving personal care to an infant who is HIV-positive, standard precautions should be followed, which includes wearing gloves. Eye protection is not typically required unless there is a risk of splashing bodily fluids.

Choice C reason: Suctioning secretions from a child's newly placed tracheostomy tube requires eye protection because there is a high risk of secretions being expelled forcefully, which could contact the mucous membranes of the eyes.

Choice D reason: Withdrawing cord blood from a neonate generally does not require eye protection unless there is a risk of blood splatter. Standard precautions, including the use of gloves, should be sufficient.

Choice E reason: Transporting a cerebrospinal fluid specimen to the laboratory does not require the nurse to wear eye protection. However, the nurse should ensure that the specimen is sealed properly to prevent any leaks.

Choice A reason: Inspection should be performed first to observe for any visible abnormalities, distention, or movements that could indicate underlying conditions.

Choice B reason: Percussion is used after auscultation to assess the presence of fluid, gas, and to estimate the size of the organs within the abdomen.

Choice C reason: Palpation is typically performed last because it can alter the natural state of the abdomen, potentially causing discomfort and affecting the bowel sounds that are assessed during auscultation.

Choice D reason: Auscultation should be performed before palpation and percussion to avoid altering bowel sounds. It allows the nurse to listen to the natural state of bowel motility and vascular sounds without interference.