A nurse is completing discharge teaching with a client who has a new diagnosis of AIDS. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason: Changing the ostomy pouch daily is not typically necessary. Most pouches can be worn comfortably for several days before needing to be changed. Frequent changes are not only unnecessary but can also irritate the skin around the stoma.

Choice B reason: Emptying the ostomy pouch when it is 2/3 full is recommended to prevent leaks and overfilling, which can lead to discomfort and potential skin irritation. It is important to monitor the fullness of the pouch and empty it regularly to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Choice C reason: Trimming the opening of the ostomy seal to be 1/2 inch wider than the stoma is incorrect. The opening should be cut to match the size of the stoma to ensure a snug fit that prevents leakage and protects the skin around the stoma.

Choice D reason: Applying lotion to the peristomal skin when changing the ostomy pouch is not advised. Lotions or creams can interfere with the adhesive of the ostomy appliance and should be avoided. The peristomal skin should be clean and dry to ensure proper adhesion of the ostomy appliance.

Choice A reason: Constipation can be a side effect of many cancer treatments, including radiation therapy. However, it is not commonly associated with targeted radiation therapy to the neck. Constipation is more often related to opioid pain medications, decreased physical activity, or dietary changes that a patient may experience during cancer treatment.

Choice B reason: Decreased tear production is not a typical side effect of targeted radiation therapy to the neck. This condition, known as dry eye syndrome, is more commonly associated with radiation therapy that affects the eye or orbital area directly.

Choice C reason: Mouth ulcers, also known as mucositis, are a common adverse effect of radiation therapy to the neck. Radiation can damage the mucosal lining of the mouth, leading to painful sores that can affect a patient's ability to eat, speak, and swallow. These ulcers typically develop one to two weeks after starting treatment and may persist for some time after the treatment ends.

Choice D reason: Peripheral neuropathy, which involves damage to the peripheral nerves and often results in symptoms like numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet, is not a common side effect of radiation therapy to the neck. It is more frequently associated with certain chemotherapeutic agents or radiation therapy to areas of the body where peripheral nerves are located.