Which patient using an inhaler would benefit most from using a spacer?

Choice A reason: Using standard precautions is necessary to prevent infection spread, but it does not address the client’s immediate physiological needs of diarrhea, which can cause dehydration. Monitoring fluid and electrolytes is critical to prevent complications, making this a less urgent intervention.

Choice B reason: Monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance disturbances is the priority, as diarrhea causes significant fluid and electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia), risking dehydration and cardiac issues. This assessment guides rehydration and replacement therapy, making it the most critical intervention to stabilize the client.

Choice C reason: Encouraging small, frequent meals supports nutrition but is not the priority during acute diarrhea, as food may worsen symptoms. Fluid and electrolyte replacement to correct dehydration takes precedence to prevent life-threatening complications, making this a secondary intervention.

Choice D reason: Identifying the cause of diarrhea and assessing bowel habits is important for long-term management but not the immediate priority. Addressing fluid and electrolyte imbalances is more critical to stabilize the client’s condition, making this a follow-up action rather than the initial priority.

Choice A reason: Focusing on survival dismisses the client’s emotional distress, potentially invalidating their feelings. Addressing body image concerns empathetically fosters trust, making this an inappropriate and unsupportive response.

Choice B reason: Inviting the client to discuss feelings about the incision validates their emotions and promotes therapeutic communication. This open-ended approach supports coping with body image changes, making it the best response.

Choice C reason: Normalizing feelings is helpful, but stating the incision will heal soon minimizes the client’s distress. Exploring emotions is more therapeutic, as healing does not address body image, making this less effective.

Choice D reason: Discussing clothing to cover the incision is practical but avoids the emotional issue. Addressing feelings first supports psychological adjustment, making this a secondary intervention compared to open dialogue.