A nurse is reinforcing teaching about foot care with a client who has diabetes mellitus. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of the teaching?

A. "I should use my wrist to test the temperature of the water before bathing": This is correct as using the wrist to test water temperature helps prevent burns or injuries, which is crucial for individuals with diabetes who may have reduced sensation in their feet.
B. "I should put lotion between my toes every day to prevent dryness and cracking": This is incorrect because applying lotion between the toes can promote fungal infections. Lotion should be applied to the tops and soles of the feet, avoiding the spaces between the toes.
C. "I should apply a heating pad to my feet every night to help with circulation": This is incorrect as heating pads can cause burns due to decreased sensation. It is safer to avoid direct heat applications.
D. "I should round the corners of my toenails with a nail file to prevent ingrown nails": This is incorrect; toenails should be trimmed straight across to prevent ingrown nails rather than rounded.

A. Unscrew the pins to cleanse the pin sites: Unscrewing the pins is incorrect as it can compromise the stability of the traction and increase the risk of infection. Pin site care should be performed according to the facility's protocol without disturbing the pins.
B. Remove the weights while turning the client in bed: Removing weights is incorrect as it can disrupt the alignment and effectiveness of the traction. Weights should be left in place to maintain proper traction and alignment.
C. Loosen the rope knots holding the weights for 30 min if the client reports pain: Loosening the rope knots is inappropriate and can interfere with the traction's effectiveness. Pain management should involve assessing the client's comfort and reviewing the traction setup, but not altering the traction itself.
D. Ensure that there is at least 4.5 kg (10 lb) of weight applied to the client's traction: This is correct as maintaining the appropriate amount of weight is crucial for proper skeletal traction. Ensuring that the prescribed weight is applied helps in achieving the desired therapeutic effect.