A nursing preceptor is reviewing life expectancy in the twentieth century with a new nurse. The nurse should recognize that which of the following was most responsible for the dramatic increase in life expectancy during the twentieth century.

Choice A reason: Nurses performing duties outside of the nurses' typical job description is a component that should include nurses. In a disaster situation, nurses may have to assume roles and responsibilities that are beyond their usual scope of practice, such as triage, first aid, or mass casualty management. Nurses should be trained and prepared to perform these duties safely and effectively.

Choice B reason: A plan for comprehensive practice drills is a component that should include nurses. Practice drills are essential for testing and improving the disaster plan, as well as enhancing the skills and confidence of the staff. Nurses should participate in regular and realistic drills that simulate different types of disasters and scenarios.

Choice C reason: Identification of resources to meet anticipated needs for food, water, and supplies is a component that should include nurses. In a disaster situation, the demand for resources may exceed the supply, and the availability of resources may be disrupted or limited. Nurses should be involved in identifying and prioritizing the essential resources that are needed to provide care and support to the clients and staff.

Choice D reason: An internal and external communication plan is a component that should include nurses. In a disaster situation, communication is vital for coordinating actions, sharing information, and providing updates. Nurses should be aware of the communication channels and protocols that are used within and outside the hospital, such as radios, phones, or social media.

Choice E reason: Discharge all surgical clients who are one day or more post-op is not a component that should include nurses. This is not a realistic or appropriate strategy for reducing the hospital's occupancy or workload in a disaster situation. Discharging surgical clients who are still recovering may compromise their health outcomes and increase their risk of complications or readmission.

Choice A reason: Planning medication doses to occur before meals is a good suggestion to improve the client's nutritional status. Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness and fatigue of the voluntary muscles, especially those involved in chewing and swallowing. Taking anticholinesterase medications before meals can enhance muscle strength and coordination, and make it easier for the client to eat and avoid choking or aspiration.

Choice B reason: Restricting drinking fluids before and during meals is not a good suggestion to improve the client's nutritional status. Fluid intake is important for hydration and digestion, and should not be limited unless there is a medical reason, such as fluid overload or heart failure. Drinking fluids before and during meals can also help lubricate the food and prevent dryness or irritation of the mouth and throat.

Choice C reason: Increasing the amount of fat and carbohydrates in meals is not a good suggestion to improve the client's nutritional status. Fat and carbohydrates are sources of energy, but they can also increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease if consumed excessively. A balanced diet that includes adequate protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber is more beneficial for the client's health and well-being.

Choice D reason: Eating three large meals per day is not a good suggestion to improve the client's nutritional status. Eating large meals can be difficult and exhausting for the client with myasthenia gravis, as their muscle strength and endurance may decline over time. Eating smaller and more frequent meals can help maintain the energy level and prevent fatigue or hunger.