A nurse is reinforcing discharge instructions with a client who is walking with crutches. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the instructions?

Choice A Reason:

Lowering the side rail on the side of the bed where the AP will stand to perform mouth care is a safety measure. It provides better access to the client and allows the AP to perform the task more comfortably and effectively. This action helps prevent the AP from leaning over an elevated side rail, reducing the risk of injury to themselves or the client.

Choice B Reason:

Wearing clean gloves to perform mouth care for the client is a safety measure. Wearing gloves is crucial to maintain hygiene and prevent the transmission of microorganisms during mouth care.

Choice C Reason:

Using an oral care sponge swab moistened with cool water to clean the client's mouth is a safety measure. Using a moistened oral care sponge swab is a suitable method for providing mouth care to an unconscious client, helping to keep the mouth clean and moist.

Choice D Reason:

Using two gloved fingers to open the client's mouth for cleaning is NOT a safety measure. In this situation, using fingers to open the client's mouth poses a risk of injury or discomfort to the client. It's important to handle an unconscious patient's mouth with care and avoid using fingers to open the mouth forcibly.

Choice A Reason:

Questioning the client about allergies before the procedure is appropriate. It is essential to assess the client for any allergies, especially to contrast dye, before the procedure. Allergic reactions to contrast dye can range from mild to severe, and prompt identification of potential allergies is crucial to prevent adverse reactions. If the client has a known allergy to the contrast dye, alternative imaging methods or pre-medication may be considered.

Choice B Reason:

Telling the client to increase fluid intake following the procedure is inappropriate. This instruction is relevant post-procedure for the elimination of the contrast dye from the body. However, it is not the priority at this moment, and the client's safety during the procedure takes precedence.

Choice C Reason:

Evaluating the client for claustrophobia is inappropriate. Assessing for claustrophobia is important, especially if the CT scan involves an enclosed space. However, this assessment can typically be conducted in advance of the procedure during the pre-procedure preparations.

Choice D Reason:

Informing the client about the steps of the procedure is inappropriate. Providing information about the procedure is important for the client's understanding and cooperation. However, ensuring the client's safety during the procedure by assessing for potential allergies to the contrast dye comes first.