The nurse identifies which of the following interventions in the treatment of fungal infections? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: A licensed practical nurse is qualified to care for the feet of a client with diabetes is false because foot care for people with diabetes requires specialized training and skills that are beyond the scope of practice of a licensed practical nurse. A registered nurse or a podiatrist should provide foot care for people with diabetes, as they can assess, treat, and prevent foot problems such as ulcers, infections, or nerve damage.

Choice B reason: Onychomycosis is quickly eradicated with antifungal creams or powders is false because onychomycosis, or fungal nail infection, is a stubborn and persistent condition that can take months or years to clear. Antifungal creams or powders are usually not effective for onychomycosis, as they cannot penetrate the nail plate. Oral antifungal medication or laser therapy may be needed to treat onychomycosis.

Choice C reason: Maintaining oral hydration may reduce the incidence of xerosis is true because xerosis, or dry skin, is a common problem for older adults, as their skin produces less oil and moisture. Drinking enough fluids can help hydrate the skin and prevent dryness, itching, cracking, or infection. The recommended fluid intake for older adults is 2400 mL/day, according to the National Council on Aging.

Choice D reason: Ram’s-horn nail should be cut to give a smooth, rounded edge is false because ram’s-horn nail, or onychogryphosis, is a condition where the nail becomes thickened, curved, and distorted. Cutting the nail can be difficult and painful, and may cause bleeding or infection. A podiatrist should trim and file the nail, and treat any underlying causes of the condition.

Choice A reason: Avoiding sick people and washing hands is the most important client teaching for the nurse to include for the prevention of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD, as it can reduce the exposure to respiratory infections, which are the main cause of COPD exacerbations. The nurse would advise the older adult to stay away from people who have colds, flu, or other contagious illnesses, and to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Choice B reason: Using low-flow oxygen for dyspnea is a possible client teaching for the nurse to include for the prevention of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD, but it is not the most important one, as it depends on the severity of the condition and the oxygen saturation level of the patient. The nurse would advise the older adult to use oxygen therapy as prescribed by their doctor, and to monitor their oxygen level with a pulse oximeter.

Choice C reason: Easing breathing by sitting upright is a helpful client teaching for the nurse to include for the prevention of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD, but it is not the most important one, as it is a supportive measure that does not address the underlying cause of the exacerbation. The nurse would advise the older adult to sit upright or lean forward when they have difficulty breathing, and to use pursed-lip breathing or abdominal breathing techniques.

Choice D reason: Eating nutrient- and calorie-dense foods is a beneficial client teaching for the nurse to include for the prevention of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD, but it is not the most important one, as it is a long-term strategy that does not prevent the immediate risk of exacerbation. The nurse would advise the older adult to eat a balanced diet that provides enough protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, and to avoid foods that can cause gas, bloating, or reflux.