A client admitted with an acute exacerbation of Ménière's disease asks the student nurse why he was prescribed diphenhydramine. Which response by the student nurse requires correction by the primary nurse?

Choice A Reason: To administer medications and electrolytes is not the best reply for why the client will need the NG tube, because this is not the primary purpose of the NG tube in this case. The NG tube is mainly used to relieve gastric distension and prevent vomiting and aspiration. Medications and electrolytes can be given through the IV route.

Choice B Reason: To dilate the stomach as a presurgical preparation is not the best reply for why the client will need the NG tube, because this is not a valid indication for the NG tube in this case. The NG tube is mainly used to relieve gastric distension and prevent vomiting and aspiration. Dilation of the stomach is not a goal of presurgical preparation, but rather an adverse effect of gastric obstruction.

Choice C Reason: You will not be able to eat for several days is not the best reply for why the client will need the NG tube, because this is not a complete or accurate explanation of the NG tube in this case. The NG tube is mainly used to relieve gastric distension and prevent vomiting and aspiration. The client will not be able to eat for several days because of the NPO diet, which is necessary to rest the inflamed peritoneum and reduce the risk of complications.

Choice D Reason: To remove secretions and decompress your stomach is the best reply for why the client will need the NG tube, because this is a clear and correct explanation of the NG tube in this case. The NG tube is mainly used to relieve gastric distension and prevent vomiting and aspiration, which are common symptoms of acute peritonitis. By removing secretions and decompressing the stomach, the NG tube can reduce pain, inflammation, and infection in the abdominal cavity.

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because rotating nursing staff may not provide emotional support for the client who is rehabilitating from major burns. The client may benefit from having consistent and familiar staff who can establish rapport and trust with him. The nurse should assign staff who are experienced and comfortable with burn care and who can communicate effectively and empathetically with the client.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because keeping family members aware of his condition may not provide emotional support for the client who is rehabilitating from major burns. The client may have privacy or confidentiality concerns or may not want his family members to see him in his current state. The nurse should respect the client's wishes and preferences regarding family involvement and obtain his consent before sharing any information.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because talking with the client during wound care can provide emotional support for the client who is rehabilitating from major burns. Wound care can be painful and stressful for the client, so the nurse should use therapeutic communication skills to distract, reassure, and encourage him. The nurse should also explain the procedures and rationale for wound care and allow the client to express his feelings and concerns.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because assigning assistive personnel to keep his room neat and clean may not provide emotional support for the client who is rehabilitating from major burns. The client may appreciate a clean environment, but he may also need more direct and personal contact with the nurse. The nurse should spend time with the client and provide holistic care that addresses his physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs.