A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving morphine for pain. Which of the following findings indicates that the client is experiencing an adverse effect of the medication?

A. The client has a decreased energy level.A decreased energy level can be a common symptom of many conditions, including terminal illnesses. While it can be associated with feelings of hopelessness, it is not necessarily an indication of it. Other factors like the illness itself, treatments, or emotional stress can contribute to low energy.

B. The client requests a second opinion.Requesting a second opinion is generally a sign that the client is still actively engaged in their care and is seeking more information or alternative options. It indicates hope or a desire for different possibilities rather than hopelessness.

C. The client wants to talk about the diagnosis with the nursing staff.Wanting to talk about the diagnosis with the nursing staff suggests that the client is processing the information and seeking support. Open communication is a positive coping mechanism and not typically an indication of hopelessness.

D. The client makes funeral arrangements.When a client makes funeral arrangements, it can be a sign that they are feeling hopeless about their situation and are preparing for the end of their life. While it is practical and sometimes necessary to make such arrangements, in this context, it can be seen as a manifestation of hopelessness.

Choice A reason:

The statement is correct because chickenpox is highly contagious, and visiting someone with active chickenpox can put the pregnant individual at risk of contracting the infection. The recommendation is to avoid contact with individuals who have chickenpox, especially during pregnancy. The correct approach is to stay away from the infected person until they are no longer contagious (which is usually after all the sores have crusted over and dried up).

Choice B reason:

The statement Is incorrect because taking antibiotics for a viral infection is not appropriate, as antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, not viruses. Using antibiotics inappropriately can lead to antibiotic resistance and other potential side effects. Viral infections are generally managed with supportive care.

Choice C reason:

The statement is incorrect because handwashing is an essential infection prevention measure, but washing hands for 10 seconds with hot water may not be sufficient to remove germs effectively. The recommended duration for handwashing is at least 20 seconds with soap and water.

Choice D reason:

The statement is incorrect because cleaning a cat's litter box during pregnancy is not recommended due to the potential risk of exposure to the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which is found in cat faeces. Toxoplasmosis can cause serious health issues in the developing foetus. It is best for pregnant individuals to avoid cleaning the litter box and have someone else do it or wear gloves and wash hands thoroughly afterward if no one else can do it.