A nurse is caring for a client who is to undergo a subtotal thyroidectomy. Which of the following items should the nurse place at the client’s bedside?

Rationale:

A. “Provide homeschooling for your child.” Most children with cystic fibrosis can attend school with proper care and infection control practices in place. Encouraging normal socialization and routine helps support emotional and developmental health.

B. "Ensure that your child does not receive the influenza vaccine annually”: Annual influenza vaccination is strongly recommended for children with cystic fibrosis due to their higher risk of respiratory infections and complications. Avoiding the vaccine puts the child at greater risk.

C. "Do not include your child when making decisions about treatment.” School-age children benefit from age-appropriate involvement in their care, which promotes cooperation, reduces anxiety, and builds a sense of control and responsibility over their health.

D. "Have your child wear a medical identification wristband.” Wearing a medical ID helps ensure that in emergencies, responders are aware of the child's condition and can provide appropriate, timely care. This is a safety measure recommended for children with chronic health conditions.

Rationale:

A. "I will place a night light in the hallway near the bathroom.": Installing night lights in commonly used paths, such as the hallway to the bathroom, helps prevent falls by improving visibility during nighttime trips, which is especially important for older adults with limited vision or balance.

B. "I will use a standard height toilet seat.": Standard height toilet seats can make sitting and standing more difficult for older adults. Raised toilet seats are safer and reduce the risk of falls by minimizing the effort required to use the toilet.

C. "I will set my water heater to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.": This temperature is too high and increases the risk of scald injuries. Water heaters should be set to no more than 120°F to protect older adults from accidental burns, as their skin is often thinner and more sensitive.

D. "I will cover extension cords with throw rugs.": Covering cords with rugs creates a tripping hazard. Extension cords should be secured against walls or removed altogether to reduce fall risk, especially in homes with elderly residents.