A nurse is reviewing the results of a client's fecal occult blood screening test. Which of the following findings from the client's history should the nurse identify as potentially causing a false-positive result?

The client should wear a mask during transport to prevent the spread of infectious droplets. The nurse should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) based on the precautions required for the specific client, which in this case would be a mask. The nurse does not need to wear a gown as droplet precautions do not require the use of a gown during transport.

The correct answer is choice C, the client should wear a mask during transport.

Choice A rationale:

The client wearing a gown during transport is not typically necessary for droplet precautions unless there is a risk of the gown becoming contaminated with infectious material. Gowns are primarily used to protect the healthcare worker or other patients if there is direct contact with the patient.

Choice B rationale:

While the nurse should wear a mask if they will be within close proximity to the client, the primary concern in droplet precautions is to prevent the spread of infection from the client, who is the source of the droplets.

Choice C rationale:

The client should wear a mask during transport to contain respiratory secretions and minimize the risk of droplet spread, as droplets can be disseminated by coughing, sneezing, or talking. This is a key component of source control in droplet precautions.

Choice D rationale:

Similar to choice A, the nurse wearing a gown during transport is not a standard requirement for droplet precautions unless there is anticipated contact with the patient or their environment that might result in contamination.

In summary, the primary goal of droplet precautions is to prevent the spread of infections through large respiratory droplets that are expelled by the client. Therefore, having the client wear a mask is the most effective measure among the options provided to reduce the risk of transmission during transport.

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice A rationale: Applying traction weight to the external fixator is not recommended, as it can cause excessive stress on the pins and wires, leading to complications such as infection, loosening, or breakage1.Traction is usually applied to skeletal pins that are inserted into the bone without an external frame2.

Choice B rationale: Monitoring the neurovascular status of the affected limb is important, but every 8 hours is not frequent enough.The nurse should perform neurovascular checks every 2 to 4 hours for the first 24 hours, then every 4 to 8 hours, according to the facility policy3. This is to assess for signs of nerve damage, compartment syndrome, or impaired circulation, which can result from the injury or the device.

Choice C rationale: Administering pain medication 30 min prior to pin care is a correct intervention, as it can help reduce the discomfort and anxiety associated with the procedure. Pin care involves cleaning the pin sites with an antiseptic solution and applying sterile dressings to prevent infection and promote healing. The frequency and technique of pin care may vary depending on the type of device, the condition of the wound, and the facility protocol.

Choice D rationale: Adjusting the clamps on the device’s frame daily is not a nursing intervention, as it can alter the alignment and stability of the fracture. The clamps should be tightened only by the orthopedic surgeon or a trained technician, and only when necessary. The nurse should inspect the device for any loose or broken parts and report any problems to the surgeon.

So, the correct answer is Choice C, after analysing all choices.