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

Choice A reason: Inflammatory is the phase of wound healing that occurs at the time of injury and lasts about 35 days, because it is the first and immediate response to tissue damage. Inflammatory is the phase of wound healing that involves the activation of the immune system, the release of chemical mediators, the dilation of blood vessels, the increase of blood flow, the migration of white blood cells, and the formation of a clot. Inflammatory is the phase of wound healing that aims to control bleeding, prevent infection, and prepare the wound for healing.

Choice B reason: Proliferative is not the phase of wound healing that occurs at the time of injury and lasts about 35 days, but rather the phase of wound healing that occurs after the inflammatory phase and lasts about 23 weeks. Proliferative is the phase of wound healing that involves the growth and multiplication of new cells, the formation of granulation tissue, the synthesis of collagen, the contraction of the wound edges, and the development of epithelial tissue. Proliferative is the phase of wound healing that aims to fill the wound, restore the strength, and cover the defect.

Choice C reason: Maturation is not the phase of wound healing that occurs at the time of injury and lasts about 35 days, but rather the phase of wound healing that occurs after the proliferative phase and lasts about several months to years. Maturation is the phase of wound healing that involves the remodeling and reorganization of the collagen fibers, the reduction of scar tissue, the improvement of elasticity, and the restoration of function. Maturation is the phase of wound healing that aims to refine the wound, enhance the quality, and optimize the outcome.

Choice D reason: Intentional is not the phase of wound healing that occurs at the time of injury and lasts about 35 days, but rather a classification of wound healing that depends on the type and extent of tissue damage, the degree of contamination, and the method of closure. Intentional is a classification of wound healing that refers to wounds that are surgically created, have minimal tissue loss, are clean and sterile, and are closed by primary intention, which means that the wound edges are approximated with sutures, staples, or glue. Intentional is a classification of wound healing that results in faster healing, less scarring, and lower risk of infection.

Choice A reason: Cleansing the skin routinely after soiling occurs is an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. This is because soiling from urine, feces, sweat, or wound drainage can irritate the skin and cause inflammation, infection, or breakdown. The nurse should use a gentle cleanser and warm water and pat the skin dry. The nurse should also avoid using harsh chemicals, alcohol, or perfumes on the skin.

Choice B reason: Applying moisturizer to dry areas of skin is an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. This is because dry skin is more prone to cracking, peeling, or tearing. The nurse should use a hypoallergenic moisturizer and apply it to the skin after cleansing and drying. The nurse should also avoid using products that contain alcohol, fragrances, or dyes on the skin.

Choice C reason: Using a Hoyer lift for all transfers is an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. This is because a Hoyer lift is a mechanical device that helps to lift and move the client safely and comfortably. It reduces the friction and shear on the skin by lifting the client off the bed surface and avoiding any sliding or dragging. It also prevents the nurse from injuring themselves by lifting the client manually.

Choice D reason: Massaging the client’s reddened shoulders and heels is not an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. In fact, this may worsen the skin injury by increasing the pressure and damage to the tissues. The nurse should avoid massaging any areas that are reddened, swollen, or blistered, as these are signs of pressure ulcers. The nurse should instead relieve the pressure by repositioning the client or using pressurerelieving devices, such as pillows, foam pads, or air mattresses.

Choice E reason: Repositioning the client once per shift is not an effective intervention to prevent skin injury. This is because repositioning the client once per shift is not frequent enough to prevent the development of pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are caused by prolonged pressure on the skin that reduces the blood flow and oxygen to the tissues. The nurse should reposition the client at least every 2 hours or more often if needed, depending on the client's condition and risk factors.