A nurse is assisting with the care of a client.

Exhibits

Which of the following actions should the nurse take to promote the client's respiratory status? Select all that apply.

A. Splinting the abdomen helps reduce pain during coughing, making it easier for the client to take deep breaths and effectively clear secretions. This is particularly important after abdominal surgery to minimize discomfort and promote effective coughing.

B. While acetaminophen can help with pain relief, it does not directly address the respiratory status of the client. Therefore, it is not a priority action in this context.

C. Ondansetron is effective for managing nausea, but it does not contribute to improving respiratory status directly. It is necessary for comfort, but it is not an action that promotes respiratory function.

D. The incentive spirometer is a valuable tool for encouraging deep breathing, which helps expand the lungs, improve ventilation, and prevent atelectasis (lung collapse). Regular use of the spirometer is crucial, especially in postoperative clients with decreased mobility.

E. Coughing and deep breathing are essential practices to prevent respiratory complications. They help clear secretions and promote lung expansion, which can improve oxygenation and respiratory function.

F. Ambulation is important for improving respiratory status by promoting lung expansion and circulation. It also aids in preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pneumonia. Planning ambulation after administering analgesics ensures that the client is more comfortable and able to participate in this activity.

A. Rubella is a contagious viral infection, and clients with different infectious diseases should generally be kept separate to prevent cross-infection.

B. Herpes zoster (shingles) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. A client who has had varicella (chickenpox) would be immune to the virus and thus at low risk for contracting shingles from the roommate.

C. Clients with immunosuppression, like those who are HIV-positive, should avoid exposure to herpes zoster due to a higher risk of complications.

D. Tuberculosis is an airborne infection, requiring isolation precautions that would not make this pairing appropriate.