A nurse is collecting data from a client following a lumbar puncture. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as a potential adverse effect of this procedure?

The correct answer is choice B: A client who has measles.

Choice A rationale:

Airborne precautions are indicated for diseases that spread via small particles suspended in the air, such as droplets or dust particles that remain in the air for prolonged periods. Pneumonia is primarily spread through larger respiratory droplets and is not considered an airborne disease. Therefore, airborne precautions are not necessary for a client with pneumonia.

Choice B rationale:

Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by the measles virus. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets and can remain in the air for an extended period. Initiating airborne precautions, such as wearing an N95 respirator mask and placing the client in a negative pressure isolation room, is crucial to prevent the spread of measles to healthcare workers and other patients.

Choice C rationale:

Pertussis (whooping cough) is primarily spread through respiratory droplets, similar to pneumonia. While it is a serious bacterial infection, it is not classified as an airborne disease. Thus, airborne precautions are not required for a client with pertussis.

Choice D rationale:

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is mainly spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or individuals. Airborne precautions are not necessary for MRSA, as it is not transmitted through the air. Standard precautions, including wearing gloves and gowns, are typically sufficient when caring for a client with MRSA.

The correct answer is choice B: Ask the client what they already know about meal planning.

Choice A rationale:

Using pictures of different food groups can be helpful in teaching about carbohydrate counting, but it's important to assess the client's current knowledge and understanding before introducing new information. Starting with this approach might overwhelm the client or duplicate information they already possess.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct choice. Before providing education, it's crucial to assess the client's baseline knowledge. By asking the client what they already know about meal planning, the nurse can tailor the teaching plan to fill in any gaps and avoid presenting redundant information. This approach respects the client's current understanding and focuses on addressing their specific needs.

Choice C rationale:

Giving the client a brochure with sample menus can be helpful once the nurse has assessed the client's knowledge and educational needs. However, providing the brochure as the first action might not be effective if the client already has some understanding of meal planning or if the brochure does not address the client's specific questions.

Choice D rationale:

Involving the family in the discussion of the client's meal plan is important for long-term support, but it shouldn't be the first action. First, the nurse should ensure that the client's own understanding and preferences are addressed before considering input from family members.