A nurse is assisting with the care of a client.

Exhibits

For each data collection finding, dick to specify if the finding is consistent with ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or Crohn's disease. Each finding may support more than 1 disease process.

A. Diminished hearing. Hearing loss following a stapedectomy is expected due to postoperative swelling, packing in the ear, and fluid accumulation. Hearing typically improves as healing progresses. This does not require further action by the nurse.
B. Pupils. The preoperative and postoperative pupil assessments are similar (3.5 mm preoperatively and 3 mm postoperatively), and both are equal and reactive to light. No significant neurological change is noted, so this does not require further action.
C. Lung assessment. The lungs were clear bilaterally preoperatively, and there is no indication of respiratory compromise or abnormal lung sounds postoperatively. This does not require further action.
D. Facial nerve assessment. Facial nerve injury (cranial nerve VII dysfunction) is a potential complication of stapedectomy. The nurse should assess for asymmetry in facial movements such as difficulty smiling or drooping, weakness, or numbness, which could indicate facial nerve damage. This requires further action.
E. Vertigo. Postoperative vertigo and dizziness can occur due to disturbance of the inner ear during surgery. Severe or persistent vertigo may indicate labyrinthine injury or perilymph fistula, which could require medical intervention. This requires further action.
F. Pain rating. Postoperative pain is expected, but severe or increasing pain may indicate complications such as infection, excessive pressure in the middle ear, or improper prosthesis placement. Pain that is not relieved by analgesics requires further evaluation. This requires further action.

A. Open the dampers of fireplaces. Keeping fireplace dampers open would allow contaminated outdoor air to enter the home, increasing exposure to harmful chemicals. During an outdoor chemical disaster, it is essential to seal the home as much as possible to prevent infiltration of toxic substances.
B. Cover heat registers with plastic and tape. Sealing heat registers helps prevent outside air from circulating into the home through ventilation systems. This precaution reduces exposure to airborne chemicals by limiting pathways for contamination. Creating an airtight environment is a key strategy in shelter-in-place recommendations during chemical disasters.
C. Exit the home as quickly as possible. Evacuating during an outdoor chemical disaster may increase the risk of exposure if toxic fumes are present. Authorities typically advise sheltering in place with sealed windows and doors unless an evacuation order is issued. Leaving should only occur when officials confirm that it is safe.
D. Turn on ceiling fans and air conditioners. Running ventilation systems like fans and air conditioners can draw in outside air, increasing exposure to hazardous chemicals. Instead, all air systems should be turned off to minimize circulation of contaminated air within the home.