The nurse calls the healthcare provider because a client diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is reporting of low back pain. Which additional information about the client would be important for the nurse to tell the healthcare provider?

Choice A reason: Varicella is another name for chickenpox, which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a reactivation of the same virus that causes a painful rash along a nerve pathway. People who have had chickenpox are at risk of developing shingles later in life, especially if their immune system is weakened. Asking the client if everyone at home has already had varicella can help the nurse determine the risk of transmission and the need for isolation precautions.

Choice B reason: Antifungal creams are not effective for herpes zoster, which is caused by a virus, not a fungus. Antifungal creams are used to treat fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, ringworm, or candidiasis. Asking the client if the antifungal creams have been effective is not relevant to the condition and can indicate a lack of knowledge or a misdiagnosis.

Choice C reason: Dry patches on the feet and hands are not typical signs of herpes zoster, which usually causes a blistering rash along a nerve pathway. Dry patches on the feet and hands can be caused by other conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or diabetes. Asking the client if they have any dry patches on their feet and hands is not helpful to assess the condition and can divert the attention from the main problem.

Choice D reason: Sharing combs and brushes is not a common mode of transmission for herpes zoster, which is spread by direct contact with the fluid from the blisters. Sharing combs and brushes can transmit other infections, such as lice, scabies, or impetigo. Asking the client if their family members share combs and brushes is not pertinent to the condition and can imply a poor hygiene or a stigma.

Choice A reason: Using a bed cradle to hold the covers off feet is not a good option for a client with DM and right hemiplegia, because it can increase the risk of injury and infection to the feet. The client may have reduced sensation and circulation in the feet due to diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease, which can make the feet more prone to ulcers, gangrene, and amputation. The client should keep the feet covered and protected from pressure and trauma.

Choice B reason: Providing a warming pad (Aqua-pad or K-pad) to feet is the best option for a client with DM and right hemiplegia, because it can help improve the blood flow and comfort to the feet. The warming pad is a device that circulates warm water or air through a pad that is placed on the skin. The nurse should monitor the temperature and duration of the warming pad, and check the skin for signs of burns or blisters.

Choice C reason: Placing warm blankets next to the client’s feet is not a reliable option for a client with DM and right hemiplegia, because it may not provide enough warmth and may slip off during the night. The client may not be able to adjust the blankets due to the hemiplegia, which can affect the movement and strength of the right side of the body. The client may also have difficulty feeling the blankets due to the neuropathy.

Choice D reason: Medicating the client with a prescribed sedative is not a suitable option for a client with DM and right hemiplegia, because it does not address the underlying cause of the cool feet, and may have adverse effects on the client’s condition. The sedative may interact with the client’s other medications, such as insulin or oral hypoglycemics, and cause hypoglycemia, which can worsen the stroke recovery. The sedative may also cause respiratory depression, which can affect the oxygen delivery to the brain and the feet.