A provider has ordered a wound culture for a client with a nonhealing wound. What is the nurse's first action?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct answer because a skin infection is not transmitted by airborne droplets. A skin infection is usually caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites that invade the skin and cause inflammation, redness, itching, or pus. A skin infection can be contagious by direct contact with the infected area or by sharing personal items, such as towels, clothing, or razors. The client with a skin infection should be placed in isolation for contact precautions, which involve wearing gloves and gowns and using disposable equipment.

Choice B reason: This is the correct answer because a fever with cough can be a sign of a respiratory infection that is transmitted by airborne droplets. A respiratory infection is caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi that infect the lungs, throat, or nose and cause symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing. A respiratory infection can be contagious by inhaling the tiny droplets that are released when the infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The client with a respiratory infection should be placed in isolation for airborne precautions, which involve wearing a respirator mask and placing the client in a negative pressure room.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct answer because a rash is not transmitted by airborne droplets. A rash is a change in the color, texture, or appearance of the skin that can be caused by various factors, such as allergies, infections, medications, or injuries. A rash can be contagious by direct contact with the affected skin or by sharing personal items, such as clothing, bedding, or sports equipment. The client with a rash should be placed in isolation for contact precautions, which involve wearing gloves and gowns and using disposable equipment.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct answer because heart palpitations are not transmitted by airborne droplets. Heart palpitations are the sensation of having a fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat that can be caused by various factors, such as stress, anxiety, caffeine, nicotine, or heart conditions. Heart palpitations are not contagious and do not require isolation. The client with heart palpitations should be evaluated for the underlying cause and treated accordingly.

Choice A reason: Cleansing the skin routinely after soiling occurs is an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. This is because soiling from urine, feces, sweat, or wound drainage can irritate the skin and cause inflammation, infection, or breakdown. The nurse should use a gentle cleanser and warm water and pat the skin dry. The nurse should also avoid using harsh chemicals, alcohol, or perfumes on the skin.

Choice B reason: Applying moisturizer to dry areas of skin is an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. This is because dry skin is more prone to cracking, peeling, or tearing. The nurse should use a hypoallergenic moisturizer and apply it to the skin after cleansing and drying. The nurse should also avoid using products that contain alcohol, fragrances, or dyes on the skin.

Choice C reason: Using a Hoyer lift for all transfers is an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. This is because a Hoyer lift is a mechanical device that helps to lift and move the client safely and comfortably. It reduces the friction and shear on the skin by lifting the client off the bed surface and avoiding any sliding or dragging. It also prevents the nurse from injuring themselves by lifting the client manually.

Choice D reason: Massaging the client’s reddened shoulders and heels is not an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. In fact, this may worsen the skin injury by increasing the pressure and damage to the tissues. The nurse should avoid massaging any areas that are reddened, swollen, or blistered, as these are signs of pressure ulcers. The nurse should instead relieve the pressure by repositioning the client or using pressurerelieving devices, such as pillows, foam pads, or air mattresses.

Choice E reason: Repositioning the client once per shift is not an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. This is because repositioning the client once per shift is not frequent enough to prevent the development of pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are caused by prolonged pressure on the skin that reduces the blood flow and oxygen to the tissues. The nurse should reposition the client at least every 2 hours or more often if needed, depending on the client's condition and risk factors.