The nurse identifies the hospitalized client in which situation as being at highest risk for the development of a healthcare associated infection (HAI)?

A. Clients receiving immune suppressant therapy, such as those undergoing treatment for cancer, are at a significantly increased risk for healthcare-associated infections. Immune suppressants weaken the body's ability to mount an effective immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
B. Hyperemia, or increased blood flow to a particular area, can be a sign of an acute local infection. While it indicates the presence of infection, the hyperemia itself does not increase the risk of developing a new or additional healthcare-associated infection.
C. Weight loss, especially if associated with dietary changes, may affect overall health and nutritional status, potentially impairing wound healing and immune function. However, it is not as directly linked to an increased risk of HAIs as immune suppression or invasive procedures.
D. Receiving vaccinations generally aims to enhance immunity and protect against specific infections. Immunizations can help prevent infections but do not increase the risk of healthcare-associated infections. This action is preventive rather than a risk factor for HAIs.

A. Knowing the consistency of the prescribed diet (e.g., pureed, mechanical soft, or regular) is important for planning the feeding process and ensuring that the diet meets the client's needs and restrictions. However, this information is secondary to assessing the client’s ability to safely chew and swallow.
B. While reviewing current medications is important for understanding potential drug interactions, side effects, or dietary restrictions, it is not the most immediate concern before feeding. Medications can influence appetite and digestion, but the priority is ensuring the client can safely handle the food.
C. This is the most critical information to obtain before feeding a debilitated client. Assessing the client's ability to chew and swallow helps prevent complications such as aspiration, choking, or aspiration pneumonia. The nurse should ensure that the client can safely manage the food given to them and that their swallowing mechanisms are functioning adequately.
D. While monitoring the respiratory rate and lung sounds is important for overall health assessment, it is not the immediate priority before starting a feeding session. However, it is important to monitor for signs of aspiration during and after feeding, as compromised swallowing can lead to aspiration pneumonia.