A community health nurse is performing a home visit for a client and is evaluating the home environment for safety. Which of the following findings would indicate to the nurse that the client has a proper understanding of safety in the home?

Rationale:

A. "I will drink half of a cup of fruit juice when I feel shaky and weak.": Shakiness and weakness are early signs of low blood glucose, and consuming 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate like ½ cup of fruit juice is an appropriate immediate response.

B. "I will soak my feet in water before applying lotion between my toes.": Diabetic clients should avoid soaking their feet due to the risk of skin maceration and infection. Lotion should not be applied between the toes, as this can promote fungal growth in a moist environment.

C. "I will skip a snack if I'm not hungry after lunch.": Skipping snacks can lead to hypoglycemia, especially if insulin has been administered. Even when not hungry, small carbohydrate intake may be necessary depending on the insulin regimen and activity level.

D. "I will only go without socks and shoes when I am in my home.": Diabetic clients should always wear protective footwear, even at home, to avoid undetected foot injuries that can lead to ulcers or infections due to impaired sensation and circulation.

Rationale:

A. Change gloves after contact with infectious material: Gloves must be changed after contact with infectious material to prevent cross-contamination. C. difficile spores can survive on surfaces and be transferred if gloves are not properly changed between tasks or patients.

B. Wear an N95 respirator when providing care: An N95 respirator is not required for C. difficile, as it is transmitted via the fecal-oral route through spores, not by airborne particles. Standard and contact precautions not airborne are appropriate for this infection.

C. Wear a gown when providing care: Wearing a gown is essential when caring for a client with C. difficile, as the spores can contaminate clothing and surfaces. Contact precautions require both gloves and gowns for direct care.

D. Remove the thermometer from client's room for use on another client: Equipment used for a client with C. difficile should remain dedicated to that client to prevent environmental contamination. Sharing items between patients increases the risk of spreading spores.

E. Wash hands with an alcohol-based cleaner: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are ineffective against C. difficile spores. Hands should be washed with soap and water, which is the only effective method for removing these resilient organisms.