A nurse is preparing discharge teaching for a client who has Crohn's disease and a new ileostomy. Which of the following community resources should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Purulent drainage: The presence of purulent drainage suggests a possible wound infection, which requires immediate evaluation and potential intervention by the provider. Signs of infection may include increased warmth, redness, swelling, and fever. Culturing the wound and initiating appropriate antibiotic therapy may be necessary.

B. Edema: Mild edema around the surgical site is a common postoperative finding due to localized inflammation and tissue healing. Unless accompanied by other concerning signs like excessive drainage or warmth, it is not typically a cause for alarm.

C. Ecchymotic skin: Bruising around the incision site is expected after surgery due to minor blood vessel trauma during the procedure. It usually resolves without intervention and does not necessarily indicate a complication.

D. Erythema: Some redness around the incision is normal in the early postoperative period as part of the inflammatory response to healing. However, increasing or spreading erythema, particularly with warmth and tenderness, may indicate infection and should be further evaluated.

A. Drink 3 L of fluids daily: Increasing fluid intake helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract and dilutes urine, reducing the risk of infection. Adequate hydration also promotes more frequent urination, which prevents bacterial colonization in the bladder.

B. Take a warm bubble bath daily: Bubble baths can introduce irritants and disrupt the normal vaginal flora, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections. Soaking in bathwater containing soap or fragrances can also promote bacterial growth and irritation of the urethra.

C. Drink low-fructose cranberry juice: Cranberry juice contains compounds that help prevent bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli, from adhering to the bladder wall. Low-fructose options are preferred to minimize excessive sugar intake, which can contribute to bacterial growth.

D. Void every 6 hr during the day: Holding urine for long periods allows bacteria to multiply in the bladder, increasing the risk of infection. Voiding every 2 to 4 hours is recommended to promote bladder emptying and reduce bacterial colonization.

E. Wipe the perineal area from front to back after urinating: Wiping from front to back prevents the transfer of bacteria from the anal region to the urethra. This simple hygiene practice helps reduce the risk of E. coli contamination, a leading cause of urinary tract infections.