A patient’s spouse smokes cigarettes in the kitchen while the patient uses supplemental oxygen in the bedroom. Which is the priority nursing diagnosis for this family?

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect choice because gently trimming the patient’s toenails after soaking the feet in warm soapy water is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. Trimming the toenails can be risky for the diabetic patient, as it can cause bleeding, infection, or injury to the nail bed or surrounding skin. The nurse should avoid cutting the toenails of the diabetic patient, unless instructed by a podiatrist.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect choice because using a pumice stone to smooth roughened areas of skin on the patient’s feet is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. A pumice stone is a porous rock that can be used to exfoliate the skin and remove dead cells. However, it can also damage the skin and cause abrasions, irritation, or infection. The nurse should be careful when using a pumice stone on the diabetic patient, and avoid rubbing too hard or too often.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because liberally applying lotion to the patient's feet especially between the toes is not the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. Applying lotion to the feet can help to moisturize and soften the skin, but it can also create a moist environment that can promote fungal growth and infection. The nurse should apply lotion sparingly to the feet of the diabetic patient, and avoid applying it between the toes.

Choice D reason: This is the correct choice because obtaining a consultation for a podiatrist to assess the feet and provide nail care is the best intervention of the nurse for a diabetic patient who has rough skin on the feet and thick, overgrown toenails. A podiatrist is a specialist who can diagnose and treat foot problems, such as nail disorders, skin conditions, or infections. The podiatrist can safely and effectively trim the toenails of the diabetic patient, and provide education and advice on foot care and prevention of complications. The nurse should refer the diabetic patient to a podiatrist at least once a year, or more often if needed.

Choice A reason: This is the correct choice because providing a warm cup of hot chocolate may make it more difficult for the patient to fall asleep. Hot chocolate contains caffeine and sugar, which are stimulants that can interfere with the sleep cycle and cause insomnia. The nurse should avoid giving the patient any beverages or foods that contain caffeine or sugar before bedtime.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect choice because giving the patient a gentle backrub may make it easier for the patient to fall asleep. A backrub is a relaxation technique that can reduce muscle tension, pain, and anxiety, and promote comfort and sleep. The nurse should offer the patient a backrub or other soothing interventions before bedtime.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because encouraging the patient to use the bathroom may make it easier for the patient to fall asleep. Using the bathroom before bed can prevent nocturia, which is the need to urinate at night, and allow the patient to have uninterrupted sleep. The nurse should assist the patient to use the bathroom or provide a urinal or bedpan if needed.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect choice because giving the patient an extra blanket when cold may make it easier for the patient to fall asleep. Maintaining a comfortable temperature is important for sleep quality and quantity. The nurse should adjust the room temperature and provide extra blankets or fans as requested by the patient.