A nurse is reinforcing teaching about promoting rest and sleep with a client who reports insomnia. Which of the following statements should the nurse identify as an indication that the client understands the teaching?

Choice A reason: Moderate fatigue typically encourages sleep as the body naturally seeks rest to recover. However, if fatigue is excessive, it might lead to an overtired state where the patient finds it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Normal ranges of physical activity and resulting fatigue can actually promote better sleep patterns by helping to regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

Choice B reason: The ability to talk about the day's events can be therapeutic and help in reducing stress levels. It allows the patient to process emotions and experiences, potentially leading to a calmer state of mind which is conducive to sleep. This is particularly true if the conversation is positive or neutral rather than rehashing stressful or traumatic events.

Choice C reason: The presence of pain is a significant factor that can disrupt sleep. Pain can make it difficult for a person to find a comfortable position for sleep, and it can cause frequent awakenings or prevent the patient from falling asleep altogether. Pain management should be a priority in patient care, especially at night, to facilitate better sleep. For instance, arthritis pain can be particularly disruptive due to joint discomfort, and addressing this with appropriate pain relief can greatly improve sleep quality.

Choice D reason: While unfamiliar stimuli can disrupt sleep, their absence is not typically a factor that would negatively affect sleep patterns. In fact, a lack of unfamiliar stimuli, meaning a quiet and consistent environment, is generally beneficial for sleep as it reduces the chances of disturbances.

Choice A reason: Clean gloves are necessary when touching or being in close proximity to any wound, especially one that is infected with MRSA. MRSA is a highly contagious bacterium that can spread through direct contact with the infected area or through indirect contact with contaminated objects. Wearing clean gloves helps prevent the transmission of MRSA to the nurse and to other patients.

Choice B reason: Protective eyewear is not typically required for checking a patient's pulse. However, if there is a risk of splashing or spraying of bodily fluids, protective eyewear becomes necessary to protect the mucous membranes of the eyes from exposure to infectious materials.

Choice C reason: Sterile gloves are used during procedures that require an aseptic technique, such as the changing of a sterile dressing or during invasive procedures. Checking a patient's pulse does not require sterile gloves, as it is not an aseptic procedure.

Choice D reason: A surgical mask should be worn if there is a risk of droplet transmission or if the nurse will be in close contact with the patient's wound. MRSA can be present in nasal secretions and can be spread by droplets, so wearing a mask can provide an additional layer of protection against the transmission of MRSA.