A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with a client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. Changing the dressing on a client's IV site: This is a sterile procedure and requires the nurse’s clinical expertise. It cannot be delegated to assistive personnel (AP).

B. Suctioning a client's new tracheostomy: Suctioning a tracheostomy, especially a new one, is a sterile procedure requiring clinical judgment and skill, which is beyond the scope of assistive personnel.

C. Evaluating a client's risk for developing pressure injuries: This is an assessment task that requires clinical judgment and critical thinking. It falls under the nurse’s scope of practice and should not be delegated to AP.

D. Administering a large-volume enema to a client: Assisting with or administering an enema is a task that can be delegated to assistive personnel, as it is within their scope of practice, provided the client is stable and the procedure does not require complex judgment.

A. "I will take a stool softener to prevent constipation." This is correct. Postoperative clients, especially those who are on opioid medications for pain management, are at risk for constipation. Taking a stool softener is a good strategy to prevent this complication after surgery.

B. "I will ask to work the night shift, so I will not be driving in bright sunlight." This is incorrect. Following laser surgery for open-angle glaucoma, clients are typically advised to avoid bright lights and glare, but there is no need to change work schedules. The focus should be on wearing protective sunglasses to shield the eyes from sunlight and glare, not on avoiding daytime work hours.

C. "I will need to use my eye drops for 1 year." This is incorrect. While eye drops may be prescribed to manage intraocular pressure, the duration of use will depend on the specific medication and the client's condition. It is not typically necessary to use them for an entire year after laser surgery, and the client should follow the provider's instructions for tapering or stopping the medication as indicated.

D. "I will need to follow a low-protein diet." This is incorrect. There is no specific dietary restriction for a low-protein diet following laser surgery for open-angle glaucoma. The client should follow a balanced diet as recommended by the healthcare provider.