A nurse is planning teaching for a client who is at 10 weeks of gestation and has a history of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Which of the following information should the nurse plan to include in the teaching about UTI prevention?

A. Realign the extremity in traction: Muscle spasms can be caused by misalignment or improper positioning of the extremity. Realigning the leg ensures proper traction force distribution, reduces muscle tension, and alleviates pain. This is the most appropriate initial action for managing spasm-related discomfort.

B. Remove the traction weights: Removing weights would interrupt the prescribed traction, potentially worsening fracture alignment and increasing pain or complications. Traction must be maintained continuously unless ordered otherwise by the provider.

C. Increase the amount of traction: Increasing weight without a provider order can cause neurovascular compromise, worsen pain, or damage tissue. Adjustments to traction must be prescribed, not done autonomously by the nurse.

D. Allow the weights to rest on the floor: Letting the weights rest on the floor eliminates the traction force, which can lead to malalignment of the fracture, increased muscle spasms, and delayed healing. This action is unsafe and inappropriate.

A. Assist the client to a supine position: There is no requirement to maintain a supine position for bacterial meningitis. Clients are often more comfortable with the head of the bed elevated to reduce intracranial pressure and promote comfort. Supine positioning alone does not prevent disease transmission or improve outcomes.

B. Recommend prophylactic acyclovir for the client's family: Acyclovir is an antiviral medication and is not effective against bacterial infections. Family members may require prophylactic antibiotics if exposed, but antiviral therapy is inappropriate for bacterial meningitis.

C. Initiate droplet precautions for the client: Bacterial meningitis, particularly Neisseria meningitidis, can be transmitted via respiratory droplets. Implementing droplet precautions, including the use of masks and limiting close contact, protects healthcare staff and other clients from infection. This is a standard and critical infection control measure.

D. Perform a Glasgow Coma Scale every 24 hr: Clients with bacterial meningitis are at risk for rapid neurological changes. Performing a Glasgow Coma Scale only once every 24 hours is insufficient. Neurological status should be monitored more frequently to promptly identify deterioration.