The client is a 70-year-old female training for a triathlon. She was hit by a car while jogging and has an abrasion that is 25 cm by 12 cm on her right leg and a liver laceration. She underwent an exploratory laparotomy to repair the liver laceration and to search for other internal injuries.

The client has no chronic medical conditions and is in good health. She takes a calcium and magnesium supplement daily. She denies smoking or drinking alcohol.

What age-related factors may factor into this client's wound healing? Select all that apply.

A. A 12-year-old reporting neck, arm, and lower back discomfort:

• This child is reporting discomfort, which is concerning, but it doesn't indicate an immediate life-threatening condition. However, a thorough assessment is needed to rule out any serious injuries, especially to the spine.

B. An 8-year-old with a full leg air splint for a possible broken tibia:

• While a possible broken tibia requires attention, it is not as immediately critical as symptoms such as projectile vomiting. Splinting can help stabilize the limb, but it is not an emergency that requires immediate attention compared to potential neurological issues.

C. A 6-year-old with multiple superficial lacerations of all extremities:

• Superficial lacerations, although they require care, are generally not immediately life-threatening. The child needs appropriate wound care and assessment for any deeper injuries, but this can be addressed in a timely manner without immediate urgency.

D. An 11-year-old with a headache, nausea, and projectile vomiting:

• This is the most concerning presentation among the options. Headache, nausea, and projectile vomiting could be indicative of a severe head injury, and these neurological symptoms require urgent evaluation to assess for conditions such as a concussion, intracranial bleed, or increased intracranial pressure.

A) Correct - Demonstrating the technique used to monitor blood glucose levels is crucial.

Incorrect technique can lead to inaccurate readings, impacting insulin dosing decisions and blood sugar control.
B) Correct - Some asthma medications, like corticosteroids, can elevate blood glucose levels.

Evaluating the client's asthma medications is essential as they can contribute to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
C) Incorrect- Asking the client if they want a different manufacturer's glucose monitoring device is not helpful, because it does not address the underlying causes of the poor glycemic control. The client may also perceive this as a lack of confidence in their ability to manage their diabetes or as a criticism of their choice of device. The nurse should focus on educating the client on how to use their current device correctly and consistently, rather than suggesting a change that may not be necessary or feasible.
D) Correct - Understanding the client's daily routine helps identify factors influencing blood glucose control, such as meal timing, activity level, and stress. This information aids in creating a personalized diabetes management plan.
E) Correct - Ensuring the client uses a new insulin needle for each administration is important for preventing infection and complications. Reusing needles can affect injection site health and insulin absorption.