A nurse manager is preparing to review medication documentation with a group of newly licensed nurses. Which of the following statements should the nurse manager plan to include in the teaching?

A. Ensure sterilization of nondisposable items with ethylene oxide: Ethylene oxide is a sterilizing agent used for heat-sensitive equipment, but it does not remove latex proteins from items that contain latex. If equipment contains latex, sterilization alone will not eliminate the allergenic proteins capable of triggering a reaction.

B. Wrap monitoring cords with stockinette and tape them in place: Clients with latex allergy must be protected from direct contact with items that may contain latex components. Covering monitoring cords with stockinette or similar barriers prevents skin contact with potential latex-containing materials in the operating environment. This reduces the risk of contact reactions.

C. Cleanse latex ports on IV tubing with chlorhexidine before injecting medication: Disinfecting an injection port with chlorhexidine removes microorganisms but does not neutralize latex proteins. For clients with latex allergy, latex-free IV equipment should be used rather than attempting to disinfect latex components.

D. Wear hypoallergenic latex gloves that contain powder: Hypoallergenic latex gloves still contain latex proteins that can trigger allergic reactions. Powdered gloves further increase the risk because the powder can carry airborne latex particles that are easily inhaled or deposited on surfaces. In a latex-allergic environment, non-latex gloves such as nitrile or vinyl are required.

A. “I have been weighing myself every other morning." Daily weight monitoring is essential in clients with heart failure because rapid weight gain may indicate fluid retention and worsening cardiac function. Weighing every other day can delay recognition of fluid accumulation. Clients should weigh themselves every morning at the same time to detect early changes in fluid status.

B. “I am trying to decrease my intake of foods with potassium." Potassium intake is not routinely restricted in heart failure unless the client has hyperkalemia or specific medication considerations. Many heart failure medications, such as loop diuretics, can cause potassium loss, and potassium intake may need to be maintained or increased depending on laboratory values.

C. "I am limiting my sodium intake to 2 grams daily." Sodium restriction is a key component of heart failure management because excess sodium promotes water retention and increases circulating blood volume. Limiting sodium intake to approximately 2 grams per day helps reduce fluid overload, decrease edema, and improve symptoms such as shortness of breath.

D. "I am eating fewer potato chips and more fruit for snacks." Processed snack foods such as potato chips contain high amounts of sodium, which contributes to fluid retention and worsening heart failure symptoms. Replacing these foods with fresh fruits reduces sodium intake and supports better nutritional habits, helping manage fluid balance and cardiovascular health.

E. "I lie down and rest after meals." Lying down immediately after eating can increase venous return and exacerbate dyspnea in clients with heart failure. Clients are generally encouraged to remain in a semi-upright position after meals to reduce cardiac workload and improve breathing. Rest periods are helpful, but positioning should avoid lying flat directly after eating.

F. "I know to call my doctor if I gain 3 pounds or more in 2 days." Rapid weight gain in heart failure often reflects fluid retention rather than increased body mass. A gain of approximately 2–3 pounds in 24 hours or 5 pounds in a week is recommended to notifying the provider. Early reporting allows adjustment of medications such as diuretics to prevent worsening heart failure.