A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is admitted to the medical surgical unit.

Complete the following sentences by using the list of options:

The nurse anticipates the client will likely require

______

as evidenced by the client’s

_______

and

______

.

A) Two diarrhea stools in the last day: Diarrhea, especially if it is mild and without other severe symptoms, is not a contraindication for receiving a varicella vaccine. The child may still be able to receive the immunization if they are otherwise well. However, if the diarrhea is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or other signs of illness, the vaccine may be delayed.

B) Chemotherapy treatments: Chemotherapy treatments are a contraindication for the varicella vaccine. Chemotherapy can suppress the immune system, making the child more vulnerable to infections, including the risk of contracting varicella from the live vaccine. Immunocompromised patients should not receive live vaccines unless approved by their healthcare provider.

C) Clear rhinorrhea: Clear rhinorrhea, or a runny nose, typically indicates a mild upper respiratory condition like a cold. This is not a contraindication for receiving the varicella vaccine unless other symptoms are more severe or the child has a fever or signs of a more serious illness.

D) Medications for a cardiac anomaly: Medications for a cardiac anomaly do not generally interfere with the safety of the varicella vaccine. These medications may require careful monitoring for other reasons, but they are not contraindications to receiving the immunization, as long as the child is not immunocompromised from other causes

A) I’d like to hear your thoughts about giving yourself this medication:
This response encourages open communication and allows the client to express their concerns or fears. It shows empathy and provides an opportunity for the nurse to understand the reasons behind the refusal, which can help tailor the teaching approach. This is an effective way to build trust and involve the client in their care plan.

B) Have you considered how your decision to refuse medication will affect your family?
While this statement highlights the consequences of the client’s actions, it can feel judgmental or guilt-inducing, which may cause the client to become defensive. The nurse should aim to engage the client in a non-judgmental and supportive way rather than focusing on external consequences at this stage.

C) Why don’t you want to learn how to give yourself your medication?
This question could come across as confrontational and may make the client feel pressured or defensive. Instead of focusing directly on the refusal, the nurse should try to understand the client's perspective and barriers, which can be better achieved with a more open and empathetic approach like option A.

D) You will suffer serious health issues if you don’t take your medication:
This response may evoke fear and could be perceived as coercive. It focuses on the negative consequences without first understanding the client’s feelings or reasons for refusing. While the nurse should eventually address the importance of insulin, it’s more effective to first create an open dialogue that respects the client’s autonomy and concerns.