A nurse is caring for four children in an emergency department. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?

A. Wear a bra with wire support: This is not recommended immediately after a modified radical mastectomy, as it can put pressure on the surgical site and cause discomfort or interfere with healing. Instead, the client should wear a soft, supportive bra without underwire to provide comfort and support.
B. Use deodorant under the affected arm: Applying deodorant under the affected arm is generally not recommended immediately after surgery, as the area may be sensitive and the skin may be healing. The client should avoid applying deodorant until the surgical site has healed and they have consulted with their healthcare provider.
C. Begin ball squeezing exercises: While exercises to improve range of motion and strength in the affected arm are important after a mastectomy, initiating them on the first day postoperative may be too early. The client should follow the specific instructions provided by their healthcare provider regarding when to begin exercises and which exercises are appropriate.
D. Avoid using the affected arm for eating: This is the most appropriate instruction for the client. After a modified radical mastectomy, the affected arm may be temporarily restricted in movement or may be sensitive. To avoid strain or discomfort, the client should avoid using the affected arm for activities such as eating until they receive further guidance from their healthcare provider.

A. Obtain urinary samples by disconnecting the tubing connections:
This action increases the risk of contamination and introduces bacteria into the urinary system, potentially leading to UTIs. Urine samples should be obtained using a sterile technique to minimize the risk of infection.

B. Secure the catheter to the client's thigh:
Securing the catheter to the client's thigh can cause tension and traction on the catheter, increasing the risk of urethral trauma and introducing bacteria into the urinary tract. Catheters should be secured without tension to prevent damage to the urethra and reduce the risk of UTIs.

C. Keep the urinary bag at bladder level when ambulating:
Keeping the urinary bag at bladder level when ambulating prevents urine from flowing back into the bladder, reducing the risk of UTIs. Gravity drainage helps maintain the flow of urine and prevents stasis, which can contribute to bacterial growth and UTIs.

D. Loop the tubing so that it is lower than the collection bag:
Looping the tubing so that it is lower than the collection bag creates a dependent loop where urine can accumulate, increasing the risk of bacterial colonization and UTIs. The tubing should be kept straight and free of kinks to ensure continuous drainage and prevent urine from pooling in the tubing.