A home care nurse is caring for a client who has advanced multiple sclerosis.

Exhibits

Select the 5 complications the client is at risk for.

Choice A rationale:

Applying skin sealant on damp skin is not a correct technique when changing an ostomy appliance. Skin should be clean and thoroughly dry before applying any ostomy products. Moisture on the skin can interfere with the adhesion of the pouching system, leading to skin irritation and leakage.

Choice B rationale:

Removing the appliance before emptying the pouch is not the correct technique. Ostomy pouches are designed to be emptied without removing the entire appliance. Removing the pouch unnecessarily can cause discomfort to the client and may damage the surrounding skin. Regular emptying of the pouch while leaving the appliance in place is the appropriate practice.

Choice C rationale:

Ensuring that the skin is slightly damp for better adhesion of the pouch is not accurate. Ostomy pouches adhere best to clean, dry skin. Moisture on the skin can compromise the adhesive seal and lead to skin irritation. Therefore, the skin should be thoroughly dried before applying the ostomy pouching system.

Choice D rationale:

Tracing the size of the stoma onto the skin barrier is the correct technique when changing an ostomy appliance. The opening of the skin barrier (wafer) should match the size and shape of the stoma to ensure a proper fit. Tracing the stoma's size onto the barrier helps in cutting the opening to the appropriate size, preventing leakage and ensuring a secure fit around the stoma.

The correct answer is **a. Observe for bruising of the skin.**

Choice A rationale: Observing for bruising of the skin is an appropriate nursing intervention when caring for a client receiving alteplase (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator or rt-PA), a thrombolytic medication used to dissolve blood clots. Alteplase can increase the risk of bleeding, including bruising, as it works to break down the clot. Closely monitoring the client for any signs of bleeding or bruising is crucial to identify and manage potential complications.

Choice B rationale: Administering medications intramuscularly is not recommended when a client is receiving alteplase. Intramuscular injections can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided, as alteplase can impair the body's ability to form clots and stop bleeding.

Choice C rationale: Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours is not the appropriate frequency for a client receiving alteplase. Vital signs should be monitored more frequently, typically every 30 minutes to 1 hour, to closely observe for any changes that may indicate bleeding or other complications.

Choice D rationale: Providing a diet low in protein is not a necessary intervention for a client receiving alteplase. Alteplase works by targeting the blood clot and does not require specific dietary modifications. The focus should be on monitoring for bleeding and managing any potential complications, rather than adjusting the client's diet.