A nurse is teaching a client who is at 20 weeks of gestation about how to manage heartburn.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Advocacy is a leadership role that helps others to self-actualize.

• A. Advocacy is a leadership role that helps others to self-actualize. This statement is true and reflects one of the core principles of advocacy, which is to empower others to achieve their full potential and exercise their rights and responsibilities. This choice is correct.
• B. Subordinates are advocates for the nurse manager. This statement is false and contradicts one of the core principles of advocacy, which is to act in the best interest of those who are vulnerable or oppressed, not those who are in positions of power or authority. This choice is incorrect.
• C. Advocacy encourages clients to rely on health care staff for decision-making. This statement is false and contradicts one of the core principles of advocacy, which is to respect and support clients' autonomy and self-determination, not to impose or influence their choices or actions. This choice is incorrect.
• D. Nurse managers should distrust people who expose inappropriate professional practices. This statement is false and contradicts one of the core principles of advocacy, which is to promote and uphold ethical standards and quality of care, not to conceal or ignore malpractice or misconduct. This choice is incorrect.

Choice A rationale:

Using isopropyl alcohol to clean hearing aids is not recommended. Isopropyl alcohol can damage the hearing aid components, especially the plastic parts. It is essential to use cleaning solutions specifically designed for hearing aids to avoid damaging them. Including this statement indicates a misunderstanding of proper hearing aid care.

Choice B rationale:

Replacing the batteries every 2 weeks is a standard recommendation for hearing aid users. Hearing aid batteries typically last 1 to 2 weeks, depending on usage. Regular battery replacement ensures the hearing aids continue to function optimally. This statement demonstrates an understanding of the basic care required for behind-the-ear hearing aids.

Choice C rationale:

Cleaning the ear with cotton swabs before inserting hearing aids is not advisable. Cotton swabs can push earwax further into the ear canal, leading to impaction. Excessive earwax can interfere with hearing aid function. Instead, clients should be encouraged to clean the outer parts of the hearing aids and avoid inserting any objects, including cotton swabs, into the ear canal.

Choice D rationale:

Disconnecting the battery when removing hearing aids is the correct practice. By disconnecting the battery, the client ensures that the hearing aids are turned off, preserving battery life and preventing unnecessary drainage. This statement indicates an understanding of proper hearing aid care and demonstrates the client's ability to maintain the device effectively.