A nurse is reviewing transmission precautions with an assistive personnel (AP) who is providing care for a client who has a Clostridium difficile infection. Which of the following statements by the AP indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Ambulation assistance is expected in rehabilitation. It reflects motor recovery needs but does not pose an immediate safety or health risk requiring urgent referral.

Choice B rationale: Difficulty using utensils indicates fine motor deficits. While important for occupational therapy, it’s not a priority compared to airway protection concerns.

Choice C rationale: Expressive aphasia affects communication but does not compromise physical safety or airway integrity. Speech therapy is appropriate but not urgent.

Choice D rationale: Coughing after drinking signals aspiration risk. This can lead to pneumonia or airway obstruction, requiring immediate referral to speech-language pathology for swallow evaluation.

Choice A rationale:

Providing oral replacement solution is the nurse's priority in this situation. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to fluid loss. Oral rehydration solutions contain electrolytes and fluids that can help restore the body's hydration balance. Ensuring the client's adequate fluid intake takes precedence in preventing complications associated with diarrhea.

Choice B rationale:

Obtaining a prescription for antidiarrheal medication is important, but it is not the priority action. The client's dehydration and electrolyte imbalance should be addressed first through oral rehydration before focusing on symptom management.

Choice C rationale:

Offering the client a sitz bath is not the priority action for someone experiencing diarrhea. Sitz baths are typically used for conditions affecting the perineal area, such as hemorrhoids or perineal discomfort. However, in the case of diarrhea, the primary concern is managing fluid and electrolyte balance.

Choice D rationale:

Collecting a specimen of the client's stool is important for diagnostic purposes, but it is not the immediate priority. The client's hydration status and electrolyte balance should be addressed promptly to prevent complications. Stool collection can be considered once the client's hydration has been stabilized.