The nurse is taking the history of a client with occupational lung disease (silicosis). The nurse should assess whether the client wears which item during periods of exposure to silica particles?

A. Obtain a sputum sample:

This option is more relevant when the client is experiencing cough with sputum production, which might suggest respiratory issues. However, in the context of coughing after eating or drinking, the primary concern is likely related to the swallowing process rather than respiratory conditions.

B. Inspect the client’s tongue and mouth:

While inspecting the tongue and mouth is a good practice for assessing oral health, it may not directly address the issue of coughing after eating or drinking, which is more indicative of potential swallowing difficulties.

C. Perform a swallowing assessment:

This is the most appropriate option for the given scenario. A swallowing assessment helps identify any abnormalities or difficulties in the swallowing process, which could contribute to the client's coughing after eating or drinking.

D. Assess the client’s nutritional status:

While assessing nutritional status is important for overall health, it may not directly address the immediate concern of coughing after eating or drinking. Nutritional status assessment is a broader aspect of care.

A. “I will need to stop smoking because the nicotine causes less blood to flow to my hands and feet.”

Explanation: This statement reflects an understanding of the association between smoking and reduced blood flow, particularly due to nicotine's vasoconstrictive effects.

B. “The older I get the higher my risk for peripheral arterial disease gets.”

Explanation: While age is a non-modifiable risk factor for PAD, it is not a statement indicating a change in behavior to address risk factors. It is correct information but doesn't involve a proactive approach to risk reduction.

C. “Since my family is from Italy, I have a higher risk of developing peripheral arterial disease.”

Explanation: Family history is a non-modifiable risk factor, and the statement correctly identifies this risk factor. However, it doesn't address modifiable factors or actions to reduce risk.

D. “I will need to increase the amount of green leafy vegetables I eat to lower my cholesterol levels.”

Explanation: This statement demonstrates an understanding of a dietary modification to lower cholesterol levels, which is a positive step toward reducing a modifiable risk factor for PAD.