A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has ovarian cancer and will receive chemotherapy through a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A rationale

Instilling saline into the tubing is not recommended as it increases infection risks and does not clear secretions effectively. It is contraindicated in tracheostomy care and can harm the patient’s respiratory system.

Choice B rationale

Checking the cuff pressure is essential to prevent complications like tracheal injury or air leaks. However, it does not directly alleviate restlessness or crackles in the lungs caused by secretions.

Choice C rationale

Performing suctioning removes secretions from the tracheostomy tube and airways, improving oxygenation and reducing lung crackles. It is the most effective immediate intervention for this scenario.

Choice D rationale

Increasing humidification prevents secretion thickening but does not address accumulated secretions already causing crackles and respiratory distress.

Choice A rationale

Administering IV fluids as prescribed can be essential for maintaining fluid balance, but it does not directly address abnormal vital signs unless they are linked to hypovolemia. The nurse should prioritize identifying the cause of the abnormalities first, and then proceed with interventions aimed at stabilization and correction.

Choice B rationale

Placing the client in a supine position can exacerbate certain conditions, such as respiratory distress or hypoxia. While position changes may be needed in specific cases, this is not a primary action for addressing abnormal vital signs unless positional changes are directly implicated.

Choice C rationale

Monitoring for signs of infection is an important ongoing care strategy, especially when abnormal findings suggest potential sepsis. However, it alone does not resolve immediate concerns with abnormal vital signs and must be paired with communication and treatment strategies.

Choice D rationale

Promptly notifying the provider about abnormal findings ensures that the client's condition is evaluated comprehensively. Providers can order additional assessments or interventions to address potential underlying issues, thereby preventing clinical deterioration.