A nurse is preparing a client to undergo a cardiac catheterization.
Which of the following tasks should the nurse perform prior to the procedure?

 

The correct answer is: b. “Tighten your muscles before relaxing them when using muscle relaxation techniques.”

Rationale for Choice B: Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a well-established technique used in stress management and relaxation therapy. It involves systematically tensing and then relaxing specific muscle groups throughout the body. By tensing the muscles first, individuals can become more aware of the contrast between tension and relaxation, thereby enhancing the relaxation response. This heightened awareness helps individuals recognize and release muscular tension more effectively, leading to deeper relaxation and stress relief.

Rationale for Choice A: Choice A suggests talking to someone admired as the first step in using mindfulness techniques to relax. However, mindfulness practices typically involve cultivating awareness of the present moment without judgment. While seeking support from others may be beneficial for stress management, it is not a foundational aspect of mindfulness practice. Mindfulness often entails individual introspection and observation of one's thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations.

Rationale for Choice C: Choice C recommends breathing in through the mouth and out through the nose during deep breathing exercises. While there are various breathing techniques utilized in stress management, the typical recommendation for deep breathing exercises is to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth. Nasal breathing helps regulate the flow of air, optimizes oxygen exchange, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress reduction.

Rationale for Choice D: Choice D proposes imagining a stimulating situation when practicing guided imagery. However, guided imagery is a relaxation technique that involves creating vivid mental images of calming and tranquil scenes, such as a serene beach or peaceful forest. The purpose of guided imagery is to evoke positive emotions, reduce stress, and induce a state of deep relaxation. Imagining stimulating situations may have the opposite effect, potentially increasing arousal and tension rather than promoting relaxation.

In summary, while all choices may have some relevance to stress management, Choice B is the most appropriate as it aligns with the established technique of Progressive Muscle Relaxation. Choices A, C, and D deviate from widely recognized relaxation methods and are therefore considered incorrect in this context.

Choice A rationale:

Distributive justice refers to the fair distribution of resources, benefits, and burdens in society. Ensuring that a homeless client receives preventive medical care exemplifies distributive justice as it promotes equal access to healthcare resources for all individuals, regardless of their housing situation.

Choice B rationale:

Being honest with the parents of a child about the need to report suspected abuse is an example of veracity, which is the duty to tell the truth. While honesty is important, it does not directly relate to distributive justice.

Choice C rationale:

Accepting the decision of an older adult client to live alone in her home respects the client's autonomy and independence but does not specifically demonstrate distributive justice.

Choice D rationale:

Keeping a promise to visit with a housebound client is an example of fidelity, the duty to fulfill promises. While it is ethically important, it does not exemplify distributive justice, which pertains to fair resource allocation.