A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has long-term symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the educational materials?

Choice A Reason: Instruct the client to wear a hospital gown every day, even when out of bed

This intervention does not directly address the prevention of complications related to immobility. Wearing a hospital gown may be necessary for medical reasons, but it does not promote mobility or prevent complications such as pressure ulcers, muscle atrophy, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Encouraging the client to wear regular clothes when out of bed might actually promote a sense of normalcy and encourage more movement.

Choice B Reason: Have the client remain in bed for self-care activities

Keeping the client in bed for self-care activities is counterproductive in preventing complications of immobility. Prolonged bed rest can lead to muscle atrophy, decreased joint mobility, and increased risk of pressure ulcers and DVT. Encouraging the client to get out of bed and perform self-care activities while standing or sitting can help maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility.

Choice C Reason: Encourage the client to sit in the chair for all meals

Encouraging the client to sit in a chair for meals is an effective intervention to prevent complications of immobility. Sitting up helps improve digestion and respiratory function and reduces the risk of pressure ulcers by changing the pressure points on the body. It also promotes muscle activity and circulation, which are crucial in preventing DVT and maintaining overall physical health.

Choice D Reason: Elevate the head of the bed to 30° to 45° for medication administration

While elevating the head of the bed can be beneficial for certain medical conditions and for medication administration, it does not significantly contribute to preventing complications of immobility. This position can help with respiratory function and prevent aspiration during medication administration, but it does not promote overall mobility or prevent muscle atrophy and pressure ulcers.

Choice A Reason:

Droplet transmission involves the spread of pathogens through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Staphylococcus aureus is not typically spread this way.

Choice B Reason:

This is the correct answer. Indirect contact transmission occurs when a person touches a contaminated object or surface, such as a towel, and then touches their own body, allowing the bacteria to enter through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes.

Choice C Reason:

Vector transmission involves the spread of pathogens through insects or animals, such as mosquitoes or ticks. Staphylococcus aureus is not transmitted by vectors.

Choice D Reason:

Airborne transmission involves the spread of pathogens through the air over long distances, typically via tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Staphylococcus aureus is not commonly spread through airborne transmission.