A nurse is caring for an elderly client with viral gastroenteritis. What complication should the nurse be particularly vigilant for in this population?

A) Correct. Many bacteria that cause gastroenteritis release toxins that directly damage the gastrointestinal lining.

B) Incorrect. While invasion of cells can occur with certain bacteria, it is not the primary mechanism of action for all bacterial gastroenteritis.

C) Incorrect. While inflammation is a common response to bacterial infection, it may not be the primary mechanism of all cases of bacterial gastroenteritis.

D) Incorrect. Disruption of normal gut flora is more commonly associated with certain types of antibiotics rather than the direct mechanism of bacteria causing gastroenteritis.

A) Incorrect. Avoiding hand hygiene is not an effective way to prevent gastroenteritis; in fact, it increases the risk of infection.

B) Incorrect. Sharing personal items can increase the risk of spreading gastroenteritis, as the virus or bacteria can be easily transmitted through shared items.

C) Incorrect. While alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used in the absence of soap and water, they are not as effective as proper handwashing.

D) Correct. Proper hand hygiene, especially after using the restroom, is crucial in preventing the spread of gastroenteritis, as it reduces the risk of contaminating hands with potentially infectious agents.