A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has a new diagnosis of fibromyalgia.
Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

A patient with a BMI of 38 is considered to have obesity, which means they have excess body fat that may impair their mobility and increase their risk of complications such as pressure ulcers, infections, and respiratory problems. A bariatric bed is designed to accommodate the weight and size of obese patients, and a trapeze bar can help them change positions and transfer to a chair or wheelchair.

These interventions can promote comfort, safety, and independence for the patient.

Choice A is wrong because hourly vital signs are not necessary for a patient with obesity unless they have other conditions that warrant frequent monitoring.

Choice B is wrong because implementing all fall risk precautions may be excessive and restrictive for a patient with obesity who is otherwise stable and alert.

Choice D is wrong because supine positioning can compromise the patient’s breathing and circulation, and increase the risk of pressure ulcers and aspiration.

The patient should be encouraged to change positions frequently and elevate the head of the bed when lying down.

Heat stroke is a serious condition caused by overheating of the body, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures. It can damage the brain and other internal organs, and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Some of the symptoms of heat stroke are:

• High body temperature of 104 F (40 C) or higher

• Altered mental state or behavior, such as confusion, agitation, slurred speech, seizures or coma

• Lack of sweating despite the heat

• Red, hot and dry skin

• Rapid and strong pulse

• Throbbing headach

• Nausea and vomiting

Choice B is wrong because it is necessary to call 911 if someone has heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and cooling of the body.

Choice C is wrong because it is not normal to vomit and not sweat during a marathon. Vomiting and lack of sweating are signs of dehydration and heat stroke, which indicate that the body is unable to regulate its temperature properly.

Choice D is wrong because getting the patient to a cooler, air-conditioned place will not reverse the heat exhaustion.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can lead to heat stroke if not treated. Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and muscle cramps. Getting the patient to a cooler place may help with heat exhaustion, but heat stroke requires more aggressive cooling measures such as immersing the patient in cold water or applying ice packs to the body.