A nurse is assisting with a community health program for caregivers of clients who have Alzheimer's disease. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

Explanation

D. Maintain the client in high-Flower’s position

Crackles in the bases of the lungs, shortness of breath, and an increased respiratory rate are signs of pulmonary congestion, which is commonly seen in heart failure. Maintaining the client in a high-Fowler's position, with the head of the bed elevated to a 45-60-degree angle, helps reduce venous return to the heart, decreases fluid accumulation in the lungs, and improves breathing comfort for the client.

The other options are not appropriate actions for the client's condition:

Instructing the client to cough every 4 hours in (option A) is not the priority action in this situation. Coughing may not effectively address the underlying cause of pulmonary congestion and may not provide immediate relief for the client.

Encouraging the client to ambulate to loosen secretions in (option B) is not the priority action in this situation. While ambulation can be beneficial for overall health, the client's symptoms of pulmonary congestion require immediate attention to improve respiratory status.

Increasing the client's intake of oral fluids in (option C) is not the priority action in this situation. While maintaining adequate hydration is important, excessive fluid intake can worsen the symptoms of heart failure and contribute to further fluid accumulation in the lungs.

Therefore, the nurse should maintain the client in high-Fowler's position (option D) to promote optimal lung function and improve breathing comfort. It is important to promptly notify the healthcare provider of the client's condition for further assessment and intervention.

Assessing the client's suicidal intent and the presence of a specific plan for self-harm is crucial in determining the level of immediate risk and the need for intervention. This question directly addresses the client's current state and potential danger.

While all the questions are important in assessing the client's situation, determining the presence of a plan for self-harm takes precedence as it helps evaluate the level of imminent danger and the need for immediate intervention.

The other questions are also important but can be addressed after ensuring the client's safety and appropriate intervention based on the information gathered regarding the plan for self-harm. These questions can provide additional information to further assess the client's support system, history, and current stressors, which can contribute to understanding the context and potential risk factors for the client.

Remember, if the client expresses an immediate plan and intent for self-harm, it is essential to take appropriate steps to ensure their safety, such as involving the appropriate mental health professionals, implementing a safety plan, and providing constant supervision as needed.