The nurse is caring for a client at risk for a respiratory infection.
Which of the following natural respiratory defense mechanisms help defend against infection? (Select all that apply).

The nurse refuses to care for someone who reminds her of a family member after interviewing the client upon admission. This action is not appropriate in the prevention of liability because it violates the client’s right to receive care and may be considered as discrimination or abandonment. The nurse has a duty to provide care to all clients regardless of their personal feelings or preferences.

Choice A is wrong because establishing rapport with the client in an inpatient psychiatric setting is an appropriate action to prevent liability. It helps to build trust and communication between the nurse and the client and reduces the risk of misunderstanding or conflict.

Choice B is wrong because documenting accurately and honestly in the electronic health record is an appropriate action to prevent liability. It provides evidence of the care provided, the client’s condition and response, and any incidents or complications that occurred.

Choice D is wrong because referring to the policy of the inpatient psychiatric setting when uncertain of a standard of care is an appropriate action to prevent liability. It helps the nurse to follow the best practices and guidelines for providing safe and effective care to the client.

The correct answers are Choices A, B, C, and D.Choice A rationale:Inspection of lips and mucous membranes is a vital assessment technique for hydration status. Dryness or cracking of the lips and mucous membranes can indicate dehydration, as these areas are often affected by fluid loss. Observing these features helps healthcare providers assess the client's hydration level effectively.Choice B rationale:Pinching the skin on the back of the hand tests skin turgor, which is a reliable indicator of hydration status. If the skin does not return to its normal position quickly after being pinched, it suggests decreased skin elasticity due to dehydration. This method provides a quick visual and tactile assessment of fluid levels in the body.Choice C rationale:Measuring pulse and blood pressure is essential in evaluating hydration status. Changes in blood pressure (especially orthostatic hypotension) and pulse rate can indicate fluid volume changes in the body. An increased heart rate may suggest dehydration, while low blood pressure can indicate significant fluid loss.Choice D rationale:Obtaining the client's daily weight is a crucial method for monitoring hydration status. Weight fluctuations can provide insight into fluid retention or loss over time. A sudden decrease in weight may indicate dehydration, while an increase could suggest fluid overload or retention issues.Choice E rationale:Palpating scalp and hair distribution is not a common or effective method for assessing hydration status. While scalp condition may reflect overall health, it does not provide direct information about hydration levels compared to other methods listed.