A nurse is preparing to assist with an ocular irrigation for a client who had a chemical splash to the left eye. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Choice A reason: Ocular irrigation should be performed from the inner corner (near the nose) toward the outer corner to avoid contaminating the other eye and to ensure that the flushing fluid and any chemical residue flow away from the unaffected eye. This method helps to minimize the risk of spreading the chemical to the other eye and allows for a more effective removal of the chemical from the affected eye.

Choice B reason: While positioning the client upright is correct, having the head turned toward the right side is not specifically recommended. The client should be positioned in a way that facilitates the flow of the irrigation fluid away from the unaffected eye, which typically means tilting the head to the side of the affected eye.

Choice C reason: Placing a strip of pH paper under the upper lid of the affected eye is done to measure the pH of the tear film and determine the acidity or alkalinity of the chemical involved. However, this is not an immediate action during the initial irrigation process. The first priority is to dilute and remove the chemical from the eye as quickly as possible.

Choice D reason: While sterile water can be used for ocular irrigation, it is not the first choice. The preferred solution for ocular irrigation is a saline solution or specific eye irrigating solutions because they are isotonic and less irritating to the eye tissues. Sterile water may cause discomfort due to its hypotonicity, which can lead to cellular swelling.

Choice A reason: Moving the client to a double room may not be effective in preventing wandering and could potentially lead to confusion or agitation if the client is not comfortable with the roommate or the new environment.

Choice B reason: Using a bed alarm is a non-invasive way to alert staff if the client attempts to leave the bed. This can help prevent wandering and ensure the safety of the client without restricting their movement unnecessarily.

Choice C reason: Encouraging participation in activities that provide excessive stimulation is not recommended for clients with dementia, as it can lead to increased confusion, agitation, and potentially exacerbate wandering behaviors.

Choice D reason: The use of chemical restraints, such as sedative medications, should be a last resort and only used when necessary to ensure the safety of the client or others. It is important to use the least restrictive measures first and to always consider the ethical implications of using chemical restraints.