A home health nurse manager is caring for a client who has methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Removing fresh flowers from the client's home is not an action that the nurse should take when caring for a client who has MRSA. Fresh flowers do not pose a risk of transmitting MRSA, and may provide some psychological benefits for the client.

Choice B reason: Wearing a mask when within 3 feet of the client is not an action that the nurse should take when caring for a client who has MRSA. MRSA is not an airborne infection, and a mask is not necessary to prevent its spread. The nurse should wear gloves and a gown when in contact with the client or the client's environment, and perform hand hygiene before and after the contact.

Choice C reason: Encouraging the client to use a HEPA filter in the house is not an action that the nurse should take when caring for a client who has MRSA. A HEPA filter is not effective in removing MRSA from the air, and may not have any impact on the client's health. The nurse should educate the client on how to clean and disinfect the surfaces and items that may be contaminated with MRSA, such as bedding, towels, and personal items.

Choice D reason: Double bagging soiled dressings in polyethylene bags is an action that the nurse should take when caring for a client who has MRSA. This is a standard precaution to prevent the exposure of other people or the environment to the infectious material. The nurse should also label the bags as biohazardous waste and dispose of them according to the agency's policy.

Choice A reason: Helping the client apply for Medicare is not the best action by the nurse, as Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, disabled, or have end-stage renal disease. The client does not meet any of these criteria and may not be eligible for Medicare.

Choice B reason: Exploring options for alternative therapies is not the best action by the nurse, as alternative therapies may not be effective or safe for treating tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is a serious bacterial infection that requires specific antibiotics to cure. Alternative therapies may also interfere with the prescribed medication or cause adverse effects.

Choice C reason: Arranging for medication through local agencies is the best action by the nurse, as it ensures that the client receives the appropriate treatment for tuberculosis. Local agencies may have programs or resources that can help the client access free or low-cost medication. The nurse should also educate the client about the importance of adhering to the medication regimen and completing the course of treatment.

Choice D reason: Sending the client to the nearest facility for further evaluation is not the best action by the nurse, as it may delay the initiation of treatment and increase the risk of transmission of tuberculosis to others. The client already has a diagnosis of tuberculosis and needs to start the treatment as soon as possible. The nurse should also advise the client to wear a mask and avoid close contact with others until the infection is no longer contagious.