A nurse is caring for a client who reports xerostomia following radiation therapy to the mandible.

Which of the following is an appropriate action by the nurse?

Choice A reason:

Explaining the procedure to the client before verifying informed consent is not an appropriate action: While it is essential to explain the procedure to the client and ensure they have a clear understanding of what they are consenting to, this step typically occurs before the informed consent form is presented. The purpose of the informed consent form is to document that the client has received adequate information and has given their consent voluntarily

Choice B reason:

Confirming the client's signature is authentic is the correct action. Verifying the record of informed consent for a client scheduled for surgery involves several important steps. Of these, the nurse's primary responsibility is to ensure that the client's signature on the informed consent form is authentic. This means ensuring that the client themselves or their authorized representative has signed the form willingly and without coercion.

Choice C reason:

Providing information on the informed consent form about the benefits of the surgery is not an appropriate action: The informed consent form typically contains information about the procedure, its risks, possible complications, and alternatives, but it is not the nurse's responsibility to provide this information. The healthcare provider or surgeon is responsible for explaining the details of the surgery to the client before obtaining their consent.

Choice D reason:

Informing the client about the condition that requires treatment is not an appropriate action: The responsibility of informing the client about their medical condition, the need for treatment, and the available options lies with the healthcare provider or surgeon, not the nurse. The nurse may assist in providing information or answering questions, but the primary responsibility for discussing the medical condition lies with the provider.

The correct answer is B.

Choice A reason: Completing oral hygiene is important for overall health, especially for individuals with cystic fibrosis, as they are at a higher risk for dental problems due to thick mucus that can harbor bacteria. However, oral hygiene does not have a direct impact on the effectiveness of postural drainage. Postural drainage is a technique used to clear mucus from the lungs, and while maintaining oral hygiene is beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for this procedure.

Choice B reason: Using a bronchodilator, such as an ibuterol inhaler, is recommended before postural drainage because it helps to open the airways, making the procedure more effective. Bronchodilators work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, which can become constricted in conditions like cystic fibrosis. This relaxation allows for easier clearance of mucus during postural drainage.

Choice C reason: Pancrelipase is an enzyme supplement used to aid digestion in patients with cystic fibrosis, who often have pancreatic insufficiency. While taking pancrelipase is crucial for nutrient absorption, it is not specifically related to the respiratory treatment of postural drainage. Therefore, it is not necessary to take pancrelipase immediately before this procedure.

Choice D reason: Eating a meal before postural drainage is not recommended. The procedure involves placing the body in positions that facilitate the drainage of mucus from the lungs due to gravity. Having a full stomach can cause discomfort, increase the risk of vomiting, and may hinder the effectiveness of the drainage. It is best to perform postural drainage when the stomach is empty, either before meals or at least 1.5 hours after eating.