A client with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has Pneumocystis carinii (PCP). What is the nurse's priority assessment for this client?

Choice A reason: This is not the best intervention because it is timeconsuming and may not be feasible in some situations. Writing down the message can also be impersonal and may not convey the tone or emotion of the speaker. The nurse should use verbal communication as much as possible and supplement it with nonverbal cues, such as gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect intervention because it can be annoying and ineffective. Talking loudly in the impaired ear can cause discomfort and distortion of the sound. It can also damage the remaining hearing in the ear. The nurse should not shout or raise their voice, but rather speak at a normal volume and enunciate clearly.

Choice C reason: This is the best intervention because it enhances the quality and clarity of the verbal message. Speaking slowly and clearly while facing the client allows the client to see the nurse's mouth movements and facial expressions, which can help them understand the words and the meaning. The nurse should also avoid covering their mouth or chewing gum while speaking.

Choice D reason: This is not the best intervention because it can be inconvenient and impractical. Talking in a regular voice in the good ear may require the nurse to move around the client or position themselves in a certain way. It can also make the client feel isolated or singled out. The nurse should try to communicate with the client in a way that is comfortable and respectful for both parties.

Choice A reason: Popping bursae from standing is not the cause of the grating sound. Bursae are fluidfilled sacs that cushion the joints and reduce friction. Popping bursae may produce a snapping or clicking sound, but not a grating sound.

Choice B reason: A herniated disk in the diseased joint is not the cause of the grating sound. A herniated disk is a condition where the soft inner part of the intervertebral disk bulges out through a tear in the outer layer. A herniated disk may cause pain, numbness, or weakness, but not a grating sound.

Choice C reason: Pieces of bone and cartilage floating is the cause of the grating sound. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the breakdown of the cartilage and bone in the joints. Pieces of bone and cartilage may detach and float in the joint space, causing a grating sound when the joint moves.

Choice D reason: Years of an autoimmune process is not the cause of the grating sound. An autoimmune process is a condition where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. An autoimmune process may cause inflammation, swelling, or damage to the joints, but not a grating sound.