A nurse is reinforcing teaching about palliative care to a client who has cancer. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

A. "Give the client a straw to use for drinking" is incorrect. Straws are not recommended for clients with dysphagia because they can increase the risk of aspiration. It is better to use a cup to control the amount of liquid ingested and reduce choking risk.

B. "Place oral suction equipment next to the client's bedside" is correct. For clients with dysphagia, having oral suction equipment readily available can help clear the airway quickly in case of aspiration or choking. It is an important safety measure in the management of dysphagia.

C. "Provide thin liquids to help the client swallow" is incorrect. Thin liquids can increase the risk of aspiration for clients with dysphagia. It is often recommended to provide thickened liquids, as they are easier to swallow and less likely to be aspirated.

D. "Use a needleless syringe to instill feedings" is incorrect. The use of a needleless syringe for feeding is generally not appropriate for clients with dysphagia unless specifically recommended for feeding via a tube. Otherwise, feeding should be done carefully with consideration for the type and consistency of the food.

A. "You can take a stool softener to prevent constipation." is correct. After a retinal detachment repair, clients should avoid straining during bowel movements, as increased intracranial pressure could affect the healing eye. Taking a stool softener is a helpful preventive measure to avoid constipation.

B. "You can remove your eye patch during the day." is incorrect. The eye patch should typically be worn continuously to protect the eye and support healing. The surgeon's specific instructions should be followed regarding when the patch can be removed.

C. "You should bend from the waist to pick up objects." is incorrect. After retinal surgery, clients should avoid bending from the waist as this can increase intraocular pressure, potentially compromising the surgical repair. Instead, clients should use proper body mechanics and bend at the knees.

D. "You can apply a warm, moist compress to your forehead to reduce pain." is incorrect. Applying a warm compress to the forehead is not typically recommended following a retinal repair. Clients should follow the specific post-operative instructions from the surgeon, which may include cold compresses or other methods of managing discomfort.