The nurse completes percussion of the abdomen on an older adult client.
Which finding is considered normal for this client?

Choice A rationale:

Emphasize that using safe sex practices removes the risk of STIs. Rationale: While promoting safe sex practices is essential in preventing STIs, this response is not directly addressing the client's situation. The client already reports having unprotected sex, so this choice does not provide relevant information or address the potential consequences.

Choice B rationale:

Explain that reinfections occur from sex with untreated partners. Rationale: This is the correct response. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can be treated with antibiotics, but reinfections can occur if sexual partners are not treated. This response provides essential information about the potential consequences of unprotected sex with untreated partners.

Choice C rationale:

Clarify that all STIs are transmitted through sexual intercourse. Rationale: While this statement is accurate in a general sense, it does not specifically address the client's situation or the risks associated with syphilis. It lacks the focus needed to educate the client effectively about their current situation.

Choice D rationale:

Provide counseling that most contraceptives protect against infection. Rationale: This response is inaccurate. Contraceptives primarily aim to prevent pregnancy, not protect against STIs. Therefore, it does not address the client's concern or provide relevant information about syphilis.

Choice A rationale:

History of vomiting at home for 3 days prior to surgery. Rationale: This information is relevant to the client's surgical history and may impact their current condition. It is essential to inform the receiving nurse about this history to ensure appropriate postoperative care.

Choice B rationale:

Soft abdomen, absent bowel sounds, no bleeding on dressing. Rationale: While this information is important for assessing the client's postoperative status, it is less urgent than the history of vomiting. The abdominal assessment suggests normal findings after surgery.

Choice C rationale:

Declining to take ice chips for complaints of dry mouth. Rationale: While this information indicates the client's complaint of dry mouth, it is not as critical as the history of vomiting or the assessment of surgical outcomes.

Choice D rationale:

Peripheral pulses present with full range of motion of both legs. Rationale: This information is important but primarily related to the client's vascular and neurological status. It may not be as immediately relevant as the history of vomiting in the context of a recent surgery.