A nurse in a rural community is providing education to a group of clients about first aid interventions for snake bites to prevent further injury. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A Reason

A client who has a chest tube and reports a pain level of 6 on a scale of 0 to 10. While pain management is important, this client is not in immediate life-threatening danger. Pain can be addressed after ensuring there are no urgent allergic reactions or other critical conditions.

Choice B Reason

A client who received parenteral cephalosporin and reports urticaria and edema. This is the correct choice. Urticaria (hives) and edema (swelling) can indicate an allergic reaction, which can progress to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. Immediate assessment and intervention are required to prevent severe complications.

Choice C Reason

A client who is being admitted with bilateral stage 3 pressure injuries on both heels. While stage 3 pressure injuries are serious and require prompt attention, they do not pose an immediate life-threatening risk compared to a potential anaphylactic reaction.

Choice D Reason

A client who has a systemic infection and an oral temperature of 39.1°C (102.4°F). Although a systemic infection with a high fever is concerning and needs timely intervention, it is not as immediately life-threatening as a potential anaphylactic reaction.

Choice A Reason

“Avoid strenuous activities for 1 week following the procedure.” This statement is partially correct. While it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities, the exact duration can vary. Typically, patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and vigorous activities for a few days to a week, depending on their recovery.

Choice B Reason

“You will lie on your back during the procedure.” This statement is incorrect. For a bone marrow biopsy from the iliac crest, the patient usually lies on their side or stomach to allow access to the hip bone. Lying on the back would not provide the necessary access for the procedure.

Choice C Reason

“You will receive general anesthesia for the procedure.” This statement is incorrect. Bone marrow biopsies are usually performed under local anesthesia to numb the area. General anesthesia is not typically required. The patient may also receive a mild sedative to help them relax.

Choice D Reason

“Take acetaminophen as prescribed for pain relief after the procedure.” This is the correct statement. Acetaminophen is commonly recommended for pain relief after a bone marrow biopsy because it is effective and has fewer side effects compared to other pain medications like NSAIDs, which can increase the risk of bleeding.