A nurse is performing postmortem care for a client who was a devout Muslim. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A Reason:

Questioning the client about allergies before the procedure is appropriate. It is essential to assess the client for any allergies, especially to contrast dye, before the procedure. Allergic reactions to contrast dye can range from mild to severe, and prompt identification of potential allergies is crucial to prevent adverse reactions. If the client has a known allergy to the contrast dye, alternative imaging methods or pre-medication may be considered.

Choice B Reason:

Telling the client to increase fluid intake following the procedure is inappropriate. This instruction is relevant post-procedure for the elimination of the contrast dye from the body. However, it is not the priority at this moment, and the client's safety during the procedure takes precedence.

Choice C Reason:

Evaluating the client for claustrophobia is inappropriate. Assessing for claustrophobia is important, especially if the CT scan involves an enclosed space. However, this assessment can typically be conducted in advance of the procedure during the pre-procedure preparations.

Choice D Reason:

Informing the client about the steps of the procedure is inappropriate. Providing information about the procedure is important for the client's understanding and cooperation. However, ensuring the client's safety during the procedure by assessing for potential allergies to the contrast dye comes first.

Choice A Reason:

"I'll listen to my favorite music to take my mind off the pain." This statement refers to distraction techniques, like listening to music, which can help manage pain but isn't specifically guided imagery.

Choice B Reason:

"I'll think about my grandfather's farm to reduce pain." This statement indicates an understanding of this technique. Guided imagery involves creating a detailed mental image or scenario that promotes relaxation and diminishes pain perception. In this case, the client visualizing a familiar, pleasant place like their grandfather's farm can be an effective form of guided imagery to alleviate pain by diverting attention and inducing relaxation.

Choice C Reason:

"I'll use focused breathing to control my pain." This statement does not indicate an understanding of this technique.

Focused breathing, while beneficial for relaxation and pain management, is a different technique from guided imagery.

Choice D Reason:

"I'll learn to notice the sensation of muscle tension." This statement refers to progressive muscle relaxation, a technique involving systematically tensing and relaxing muscle groups, which isn't guided imagery.