A nurse is planning to place a client into the Sims’ position.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

The correct answer is D. Using two gloved fingers to open the client’s mouth for cleaning.

Choice A rationale:

Lowering the side rail on the side of the bed where the AP will stand is necessary for safe access to the client. However, the AP should ensure the opposite side rail is up to prevent the client from falling.

Choice B rationale:

Using an oral care sponge swab moistened with cool water is an appropriate method for cleaning the mouth of an unconscious client. It helps maintain oral hygiene and comfort.

Choice C rationale:

Wearing clean gloves is essential for infection control and is a standard practice when performing mouth care to protect both the client and the caregiver.

Choice D rationale:

Using two gloved fingers to open the client’s mouth is not recommended as it can cause injury to the caregiver if the client bites down reflexively. Instead, a padded tongue blade should be used to gently open the mouth.

The correct answer is choice C. The client who says “I need to learn how to perform a dressing change on my leg” is indicating an acceptance of the limb loss and a readiness to learn self-care skills.

This is a positive sign of coping and adaptation after an amputation surgery.

Choice A is wrong because the client who says “I am going to have to find someone who can take care of my leg at home” is expressing dependency and denial of the limb loss.

The client needs to be encouraged to participate in self-care activities and rehabilitation.

Choice B is wrong because the client who says “I stay awake at night because I keep thinking about my leg” is experiencing phantom limb sensation, which is a common phenomenon after amputation.

The client may benefit from pain management, distraction techniques, and counseling.

Choice D is wrong because the client who says “I know my family means well, but I don’t want visitors seeing my leg right now” is showing signs of social isolation and low self-esteem.

The client needs emotional support and reassurance from the nurse and family members.

Normal ranges for vital signs after amputation are blood pressure 120/80 mm Hg, pulse 60-100 beats/min, respiratory rate 12-20 breaths/min, and temperature 36.5-37.5°C.