A client presents to the emergency room reporting sudden, sharp pain on the right side of the chest and shortness of breath. The right side of the chest is not moving with inspiration. The client's trachea is deviated towards the left: there is absence tactile fremitus on the right side of the chest. Upon percussion, the nurse hears hyperresonant sound on the right side of the thorax. Upon auscultation, no breath sounds are heard on the right. Which disorder would the nurse suspect?

Choice A rationale:

It's essential to ensure that the client fully understands the surgical procedure and its implications before signing the informed consent form. If the client expresses confusion or lack of understanding, the nurse should involve the surgeon to address the concerns directly. The surgeon is the most appropriate person to provide comprehensive information about the procedure, potential risks, benefits, and alternatives. This promotes patient autonomy and informed decision-making, aligning with ethical principles.

Choice B rationale:

While educating the client about the procedure is important, it's not the nurse's role to provide detailed explanations of surgical procedures. Additionally, the surgeon possesses the necessary expertise to explain medical procedures accurately. Relying on the surgeon for this explanation maintains professional boundaries and ensures accurate information dissemination.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to reread the consent form is insufficient if the client did not initially understand the explanation. The consent form might contain complex medical language, and the client might need direct communication with the surgeon to address specific concerns. Merely re-reading the form might not alleviate the client's confusion.

Choice D rationale:

Telling the client that the surgeon will explain the procedure in the operating room is inappropriate. The client's concerns should be addressed promptly, and the explanation should occur before the surgery, allowing the client to make an informed decision. Operating rooms are not the appropriate setting for obtaining informed consent.

Choice A rationale:

Repositioning the client every 3 hours is a crucial intervention to prevent skin breakdown in older adults who are immobile or have limited mobility. Prolonged pressure on certain areas can lead to ischemia and tissue damage, particularly over bony prominences. Repositioning helps to distribute pressure evenly, maintain circulation, and reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.

Choice B rationale:

Massage of bony prominences is not recommended as a preventive measure for skin breakdown. Massaging these areas can actually cause friction and shear forces, leading to further damage to the delicate skin of older adults. Gentle repositioning and maintaining proper skin hygiene are more effective strategies.

Choice C rationale:

While a diet high in protein is important for overall health, it is not a direct intervention for maintaining the integrity of the client's skin. Protein is necessary for wound healing and tissue repair, but it doesn't address the primary concern of preventing skin breakdown due to pressure.

Choice D rationale:

Applying cornstarch to keep the skin dry is not a recommended practice for preventing skin breakdown. Excessive moisture can contribute to skin breakdown, but cornstarch may not be the best solution. Proper hygiene, gentle cleansing, and appropriate use of moisture-barrier products are more effective in maintaining skin integrity.