The nurse is providing medication education for a client with osteoarthritis. What teaching should the nurse include in the education?

Choice A reason: This is the highest risk client because surgery can cause trauma, blood loss, and infection, which can weaken the immune system and increase the susceptibility to complications. The immune system is the body's defense mechanism that protects against foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Surgery can damage the skin and tissues, which are the first line of defense, and cause inflammation, which can impair the function of the white blood cells, which are the second line of defense. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, wound healing, and signs of infection and administer antibiotics, fluids, and pain medication as ordered.

Choice B reason: This is not the highest risk client, but it is a moderate risk client because extreme anxiety can cause stress, which can affect the immune system and increase the vulnerability to illness. Stress is the body's response to a perceived threat or challenge, which can activate the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamicpituitaryadrenal (HPA) axis. Stress can cause the release of hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can suppress the immune system and reduce the production and activity of the white blood cells. The nurse should assess the client's anxiety level and provide coping strategies, such as relaxation, breathing, or counseling.

Choice C reason: This is not the highest risk client, but it is a low risk client because awaiting surgery can cause anxiety, which can affect the immune system and increase the vulnerability to illness. However, the client's anxiety level may not be as high as the client with extreme anxiety, and the client's immune system may not be as compromised as the client who has just had surgery. The nurse should assess the client's anxiety level and provide education, reassurance, and support.

Choice D reason: This is not the highest risk client, but it is a low risk client because delivering a baby can cause blood loss, hormonal changes, and fatigue, which can affect the immune system and increase the risk of infection. However, the client's immune system may not be as compromised as the client who has just had surgery, and the client may have some protection from the antibodies that are passed from the mother to the baby through the placenta and breast milk. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, lochia, and signs of infection and provide hygiene, nutrition, and rest.

Choice A reason: Alcohol can trigger a gout attack because it increases the production and decreases the excretion of uric acid, which is the substance that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, which can worsen the symptoms of gout.

Choice B reason: Fruit juice is not a beverage that can trigger a gout attack. Fruit juice contains natural sugars and antioxidants, which may have a beneficial effect on the uric acid levels and the inflammation in the body. However, fruit juice should be consumed in moderation, as excess sugar intake can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

Choice C reason: Milk is not a beverage that can trigger a gout attack. Milk contains protein and calcium, which may help lower the uric acid levels and the risk of gout. Milk also has antiinflammatory properties, which may reduce the pain and swelling in the joints.

Choice D reason: Coffee is not a beverage that can trigger a gout attack. Coffee contains caffeine and antioxidants, which may have a protective effect on the uric acid levels and the inflammation in the body. Coffee also has a diuretic effect, which may help flush out the excess uric acid from the kidneys.