nurse is caring for a client who has an acute respiratory failure (ARF). The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following manifestations of this condition? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Narrowed pulse pressure is not a specific manifestation of pneumonia in the older adult client. Pulse pressure is the difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. A normal pulse pressure is about 40 mm Hg, and a narrowed pulse pressure is less than 25 mm Hg. A narrowed pulse pressure can indicate various conditions, such as heart failure, shock, or aortic stenosis, but it is not a sign of pneumonia.

Choice B reason: Night sweats are not a common manifestation of pneumonia in the older adult client. Night sweats are episodes of excessive sweating during sleep that can soak the bedding or clothing. Night sweats can have many causes, such as menopause, infections, medications, or cancer, but they are not typically associated with pneumonia.

Choice C reason: Bradycardia is not a usual manifestation of pneumonia in the older adult client. Bradycardia is a slow heart rate, defined as less than 60 beats per minute. Bradycardia can be normal in some people, such as athletes or those who are very fit, or it can be a sign of a problem with the heart's electrical system. Pneumonia does not cause bradycardia, but it can cause tachycardia, which is a fast heart rate, due to the increased oxygen demand and inflammation.

Choice D reason: Confusion is a frequent manifestation of pneumonia in the older adult client. Confusion is a state of impaired awareness, orientation, memory, or judgment. Confusion can occur in older adults with pneumonia due to several factors, such as hypoxia, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, fever, or infection. Confusion can also increase the risk of complications, such as aspiration, falls, or delirium. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the mental status of the older adult client with pneumonia and report any changes to the provider..

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Cleansing the perineum from back to front can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, as it can introduce bacteria from the anal area to the urethra. The nurse should instruct the client to cleanse the perineum from front to back, using a mild soap and water, and to change the pad or underwear frequently to prevent bacterial growth.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Obtaining a prescription for an indwelling urinary catheter can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, as it can create a direct route for bacteria to enter the bladder. Indwelling catheters should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, and should be removed as soon as possible. The nurse should explore other bladder management options for the client, such as intermittent catheterization, condom catheter, or suprapubic catheter.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Offering the client the bedpan every 2 hours can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, as it can cause urinary stasis and bladder distension. The nurse should assess the client's bladder function and determine the optimal frequency of bladder emptying, which may vary depending on the type and level of spinal cord injury. The nurse should also monitor the client's urine output, color, odor, and clarity, and report any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or flank pain.
Choice D reason: This is correct. Encouraging fluid intake at and between meals can decrease the risk of urinary tract infections, as it can flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and prevent urinary stasis and bladder distension. The nurse should advise the client to drink at least 2 liters of water per day, unless contraindicated by other medical conditions. The nurse should also educate the client about the benefits of cranberry juice, which can inhibit bacterial adhesion to the bladder wall and prevent infection.