A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a stage 4 pressure injury. Which of the following supplies should the nurse obtain?

Choice A Reason:

"I might have headaches due to a decline in my estrogen levels." Is appropriate. During perimenopause, fluctuations and eventual decline in estrogen levels can contribute to various symptoms, including headaches or migraines, due to hormonal changes. This statement reflects an awareness of one of the possible effects of changing hormone levels during this stage.

Choice B Reason:

"The best time to perform a breast self-examination is on the first day of my period." Is not appropriate. While performing a breast self-examination regularly is essential for breast health, the first day of the period isn't necessarily the "best" time for everyone. It's more advisable to choose a consistent day each month that is convenient and easy to remember.

Choice C Reason:

"I can expect to have regular periods until I am in menopause." Is not appropriate. Perimenopause is characterized by irregular periods, which means that during this transitional phase, menstrual cycles often become less predictable in terms of timing, duration, and flow. Irregular periods are a hallmark of perimenopause, so expecting regularity until menopause is not accurate.

Choice D Reason:

"I should stop receiving Papanicolaou tests once I reach menopause." Is not appropriate. Papanicolaou (Pap) tests are essential for detecting cervical abnormalities, regardless of menopausal status. Women should continue to have regular Pap tests according to their healthcare provider's recommendations, as the risk of cervical cancer persists even after menopause.

Choice A Reason:

Adhesive tape is incorrect. Adhesive tape is commonly used for securing dressings or medical devices, but it may not be the primary supply needed for managing a stage 4 pressure injury. Wound care for a stage 4 pressure injury often involves specialized dressings, cleansing solutions, and applicators rather than adhesive tape alone.

Choice B Reason:

Tongue depressor is incorrect. A tongue depressor is typically used for oral examinations or to apply topical treatments to the mouth. It's not a standard supply for managing a stage 4 pressure injury, which requires specific wound care supplies designed for wound cleaning and dressing application.

Choice C Reason:

Syringe is incorrect. While syringes are versatile tools used in various medical procedures, in the context of managing a stage 4 pressure injury, their primary use might be for administering medications or irrigation solutions rather than being the essential supply for wound care in this specific instance.

For a client with a stage 4 pressure injury, the nurse should obtain supplies that are suitable for wound care. Among the options provided, the most appropriate supply is:

Choice D Reason:

Cotton-tipped applicator is correct. A cotton-tipped applicator can be used for wound cleaning and dressing application for a stage 4 pressure injury. It allows for gentle cleaning of the wound and application of topical treatments while minimizing trauma to the wound area.