An older adult client is admitted from a long-term care facility with purulent exudate draining from a sacral pressure ulcer is suspected to have methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Which nursing interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? Select all that apply.

A. Developmental stage. While understanding the client’s psychosocial needs is important, the ability to perform daily activities and remain independent is more critical in determining the best living environment.
B. Functional capacity. The ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) is the most important factor in determining the appropriate living environment. Clients with limited mobility, cognitive decline, or difficulty managing self-care may require assisted living or skilled nursing care.
C. Age and gender. Age and gender alone do not determine the need for a particular living environment. Some older adults remain independent well into their later years, while others may require assistance at a younger age due to functional decline.
D. Medical diagnoses. While medical conditions influence care needs, they do not solely determine living arrangements. A client with a chronic illness who maintains functional independence may still live at home, whereas a client with minimal medical issues but significant functional decline may require assisted care.

A. Monitor the client's white blood cell count. An elevated white blood cell (WBC) count indicates infection and inflammation. Since MRSA is a bacterial infection, monitoring WBC levels helps assess the severity of the infection and response to treatment.

B. Send wound drainage for culture and sensitivity. A wound culture and sensitivity test confirm the presence of MRSA and determine the most effective antibiotic therapy. This is essential to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent antibiotic resistance.

C. Institute contact precautions for staff and visitors. MRSA is transmitted via direct contact, especially through wound drainage. Contact precautions include wearing gloves and gowns when handling the patient or contaminated materials to prevent the spread of infection.

D. Explain the purpose of a low bacteria diet. A low-bacteria diet (neutropenic diet) is used for immunocompromised patients, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, but it is not relevant for MRSA. The focus should be on infection control and wound care rather than dietary restrictions.

E. Use standard precautions and wear a mask. While standard precautions should always be followed, a mask is not necessary unless performing aerosol-generating procedures or if MRSA is present in the respiratory tract. In this case, contact precautions (gown and gloves) are the primary infection control measures.