A home health nurse is reinforcing teaching about dietary needs with the child of a client. They state, "I don't know what to do because they're not eating." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A Reason:

"I might have headaches due to a decline in my estrogen levels." Is appropriate. During perimenopause, fluctuations and eventual decline in estrogen levels can contribute to various symptoms, including headaches or migraines, due to hormonal changes. This statement reflects an awareness of one of the possible effects of changing hormone levels during this stage.

Choice B Reason:

"The best time to perform a breast self-examination is on the first day of my period." Is not appropriate. While performing a breast self-examination regularly is essential for breast health, the first day of the period isn't necessarily the "best" time for everyone. It's more advisable to choose a consistent day each month that is convenient and easy to remember.

Choice C Reason:

"I can expect to have regular periods until I am in menopause." Is not appropriate. Perimenopause is characterized by irregular periods, which means that during this transitional phase, menstrual cycles often become less predictable in terms of timing, duration, and flow. Irregular periods are a hallmark of perimenopause, so expecting regularity until menopause is not accurate.

Choice D Reason:

"I should stop receiving Papanicolaou tests once I reach menopause." Is not appropriate. Papanicolaou (Pap) tests are essential for detecting cervical abnormalities, regardless of menopausal status. Women should continue to have regular Pap tests according to their healthcare provider's recommendations, as the risk of cervical cancer persists even after menopause.

Choice A Reason:

Measuring the intake and output of a client who has received furosemide is correct. This task involves recording and measuring fluid intake and output, which is typically within the scope of practice for assistive personnel. It requires accurate documentation and doesn't involve making clinical judgments.

Choice B Reason:

Reinforcing teaching with a client about crutch-gait walking is incorrect. Teaching and instructing clients about specific medical procedures or techniques usually require specialized knowledge and assessment skills, typically within the nurse's scope of practice.

Choice C Reason:

Checking a client's peripheral IV site for redness or swelling is incorrect. Assessing for redness or swelling at an IV site involves clinical judgment and assessment skills to identify potential complications. This task is better suited for a licensed nurse who can interpret findings and take appropriate action if needed.

Choice D Reason:

Assessing the pain level of a client who has received acetaminophen is incorrect. Assessing pain levels involves subjective interpretation and understanding of pain scales, which generally falls under the scope of licensed healthcare providers who can evaluate and manage pain interventions based on assessments.