A nurse is assisting with teaching a client who has obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) about continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale:

The statement, "It's unfortunate that I have to be in the hospital for this treatment," indicates the need for further teaching. TENS therapy is often used as an outpatient treatment and does not require hospitalization. Patients typically receive instructions on how to use TENS units at home.

Choice B rationale:

The statement, "I wish I didn't have to attach the electrodes to my skin," is a common sentiment but does not necessarily indicate a need for further teaching. Attaching electrodes to the skin is a standard part of using TENS therapy, and it's essential for the treatment to be effective. Some patients may find this aspect of treatment uncomfortable or inconvenient.

Choice C rationale:

The statement, "I'll need to shave the hair off the skin where I place the electrodes," is accurate. Shaving the area where electrodes are placed can improve the contact and effectiveness of the TENS therapy. This statement does not indicate a need for further teaching but rather a good understanding of the preparation process.

Choice D rationale:

The statement, "I hope I don't have to take as many pain pills," is a positive sign that the patient understands that TENS therapy can potentially reduce the need for pain medication. It indicates a reasonable expectation for pain management and does not signal a need for further teaching. .

The patient with a recent abdominal incision has an abdominal binder applied. The nurse explains that this appliance helps reduce pain by: The correct answer is choice A: supporting surface and internal tissues.

Choice A rationale:
An abdominal binder is primarily used to support surface and internal tissues. It provides gentle compression and support to the abdominal area, which can reduce pain and discomfort. By holding the incision site together and supporting the surrounding tissues, it can minimize movement and strain on the incision, helping to alleviate pain.
Choice B rationale:
While an abdominal binder may indirectly contribute to back support by stabilizing the abdominal area, its primary purpose is to support the surgical site. Enhancing early ambulation is more related to patient mobility and not the primary purpose of the binder.
Choice C rationale:
Abdominal binders do not increase warmth to the incision site. In fact, excessive warmth can lead to sweating and moisture, potentially increasing the risk of infection. The primary purpose is to provide support.
Choice D rationale:
An abdominal binder does not keep sutures and staples in place. The sutures and staples are used to secure the incision, and the binder is placed over them to provide support and compression. However, the binder itself is not responsible for keeping sutures and staples in place. .