On the first postoperative day, the nurse finds an older adult client disoriented and trying to climb over the bed railing. The client was oriented to person, place, and time on admission. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

A.Providing tissues is a helpful measure for clients to use when they need to cough or sneeze. It promotes good hygiene by allowing the client to dispose of respiratory secretions properly. However, this choice does not address the immediate concern of how the client is currently coughing and the potential for spreading infection.
B.Assisting the client with a gown change may be necessary if their current gown is soiled. However, this action does not directly address the infection control issue or the client’s method of coughing. Changing the gown is secondary to addressing proper coughing techniques and infection control.
C.Teaching clients to cover their mouth with their hands is not ideal, as it can spread germs if the hands are not washed immediately afterward. Instead, clients should be taught to cough into a tissue or their elbow (not the sleeve) to minimize the spread of germs. This is a crucial component of infection control and helps reduce the risk of transmission.
D.Providing face masks for staff is an important measure in infection control, especially if the client has a respiratory illness. However, it does not address the client's current coughing technique or teach the client how to prevent the spread of infection through their own actions.

A. Providing frequent rest periods is important for older adults, especially those who may be experiencing fatigue or have chronic conditions. However, this intervention, while supportive, is not always the most critical or directly related to creating a therapeutic environment in all situations.
B. Allowing additional time for tasks is crucial for older adults who may have slower cognitive or physical processes. This approach helps reduce stress and frustration, contributing to a more supportive and therapeutic environment.
C. Placing assistive devices within reach is essential for ensuring safety and promoting independence. It helps older adults perform tasks more easily and reduces the risk of falls or accidents. This intervention is crucial for creating a therapeutic environment as it directly impacts the client’s ability to manage their own care and environment effectively.
D. Speaking slowly and distinctly is important for effective communication, especially if the older adult has hearing or cognitive impairments. It helps ensure that the client understands instructions and information, which is fundamental for their safety and engagement in their care.