As part of an annual physical examination, a nurse is preparing a client to undergo a chest x-ray. Which of the following instructions should the nurse give the client prior to the procedure?

A reason: Wear sterile gloves. Sterile gloves are typically used for invasive procedures or when there is a high risk of infection transmission. While it's important to maintain strict hygiene and infection control when dealing with MRSA, wearing sterile gloves for checking a pulse is not necessary. Sterile gloves are more appropriate for surgical procedures or when directly handling open wounds. In the context of checking a client's pulse, clean gloves are sufficient to prevent the spread of infection.

B reason: Wear an N95 respirator mask. An N95 respirator mask is used to protect against airborne pathogens. MRSA is primarily transmitted through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or person-to-person contact rather than through the air. While respiratory protection is crucial in certain settings, such as for airborne diseases like tuberculosis, it is not required for checking a client's pulse when the primary concern is MRSA. Therefore, this option is not appropriate in this scenario.

C reason: Wear protective eyewear. Protective eyewear is necessary in situations where there is a risk of splashing or exposure to bodily fluids that could enter the eyes. While protective eyewear is an important part of personal protective equipment (PPE), it is not specifically required for checking a client's pulse unless there is an anticipated risk of exposure to bodily fluids. The primary concern with MRSA is skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces, making this option less relevant for the given task.

D reason: Wear clean gloves. Clean gloves are necessary when providing care to any patient, especially one with an infection like MRSA. Wearing clean gloves helps prevent the transmission of bacteria from the healthcare provider to the patient and vice versa. Since MRSA is transmitted via direct contact, clean gloves provide an effective barrier to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. In this scenario, clean gloves are the most appropriate and practical choice for the nurse to use while checking the client's pulse.

A reason:

The cane's height should be the same as the distance from the floor to the wrist crease, not the hip bone. This ensures proper support and ergonomics while walking.

B reason:

Advancing the weak leg forward to the cane, then moving the strong leg, is correct. This method provides support and balance for the weaker leg during ambulation.

C reason:

Advancing the cane 12 to 14 inches is too far. The cane should be advanced about 6 to 10 inches to ensure stability and support.

D reason:

The cane should be held in the hand opposite the weak leg (the stronger side), not the weak hand. This helps to provide better support and balance.