A nurse is admitting a client who reports having diarrhea for the past 72 hr. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

Choice A rationale:

Providing oral replacement solution is the nurse's priority in this situation. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to fluid loss. Oral rehydration solutions contain electrolytes and fluids that can help restore the body's hydration balance. Ensuring the client's adequate fluid intake takes precedence in preventing complications associated with diarrhea.

Choice B rationale:

Obtaining a prescription for antidiarrheal medication is important, but it is not the priority action. The client's dehydration and electrolyte imbalance should be addressed first through oral rehydration before focusing on symptom management.

Choice C rationale:

Offering the client a sitz bath is not the priority action for someone experiencing diarrhea. Sitz baths are typically used for conditions affecting the perineal area, such as hemorrhoids or perineal discomfort. However, in the case of diarrhea, the primary concern is managing fluid and electrolyte balance.

Choice D rationale:

Collecting a specimen of the client's stool is important for diagnostic purposes, but it is not the immediate priority. The client's hydration status and electrolyte balance should be addressed promptly to prevent complications. Stool collection can be considered once the client's hydration has been stabilized.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client's loved ones that the client should not have fresh flowers in their room (Choice A) is not a necessary action for rubella isolation. Rubella is transmitted through respiratory droplets, and the prohibition of fresh flowers is not a relevant precaution.

Choice B rationale:

Wearing a surgical mask when within 0.9 m (3 feet) of the client (Choice B) is the correct action. Rubella is an airborne disease, and wearing a surgical mask helps prevent the spread of infectious respiratory droplets to the nurse and other individuals.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the client in a room with negative-airflow pressure (Choice C) is not specifically indicated for rubella isolation. Negative-airflow pressure rooms are typically used for diseases that require strict airborne precautions, such as tuberculosis.

Choice D rationale:

Instructing the client that visitors will not be allowed while they are in isolation (Choice D) is not entirely accurate for rubella isolation. While isolation precautions are necessary, visitors can enter the room if they are properly protected, including wearing masks and following infection control protocols.