A male preoperative client who has already signed the informed consent for a surgical procedure confides to the practical nurse (PN) that he is really frightened and unsure about undergoing the surgery. Which priority action should the PN take?

Choice A reason: Natural history of disease is not an approach that explains the factors that allow the reproduction and spread of infectious disease, but rather a description of how a disease progresses over time from exposure to outcome in the absence of intervention.

Choice B reason: Health promotion is not an approach that explains the factors that allow the reproduction and spread of infectious disease, but rather a process of enabling people to increase control over and improve their health through education, empowerment, and policy changE.

Choice C reason: Levels of prevention are not an approach that explains the factors that allow the reproduction and spread of infectious disease, but rather a classification of interventions based on their timing and purpose in relation to disease occurrencE.

Choice D reason: Epidemiologic triangle is an approach that explains the factors that allow the reproduction and spread of infectious disease, by identifying and analyzing three elements: agent (the cause of disease), host (the person who gets sick), and environment (the conditions that affect transmission).

Choice A reason: Providing total assistance with all ADLs is not an appropriate intervention for the client because it can decrease the client's independence and self-esteem, and increase the risk of complications such as pressure ulcers, contractures, and infections. The client should be encouraged to perform as much self-care as possible, with assistance as needeD.

Choice B reason: Ordering a low-residue diet is not an appropriate intervention for the client because it can cause constipation, which can worsen the client's bowel function and quality of lifE. The client should consume a balanced diet that includes adequate fiber, fluids, and nutrients.

Choice C reason: Encouraging the client to void every hour is not an appropriate intervention for the client because it can disrupt the client's normal bladder function and increase the risk of urinary tract infections. The client should follow a regular bladder training program that involves voiding at scheduled intervals, using pelvic floor exercises, and managing fluid intakE.

Choice D reason: Instructing the client on daily muscle stretching is an appropriate intervention for the client because it can improve the client's mobility, flexibility, and range of motion, as well as prevent muscle spasticity, stiffness, and pain. The client should perform gentle stretching exercises under the guidance of a physical therapist or nursE.