A nurse is caring for a client who expresses concern about weight gain with age. The nurse should inform the client that weight gain with age can result from which of the following factors?

A. Gather additional information from the caller to verify their identity: Even if the caller's identity is verified, HIPAA regulations prohibit disclosing a client's medical information without the client’s explicit authorization. Verifying identity alone does not grant permission to release confidential health information.

B. Request that the caller contact the client's provider directly for information: Redirecting the caller to the provider does not resolve the issue of confidentiality. Healthcare providers are also bound by HIPAA regulations and cannot release information without proper consent, regardless of who is making the request.

C. Ask the caller to contact the client directly for information: This action respects the client’s privacy and autonomy. Under HIPAA, healthcare professionals may not disclose health information without client authorization. Advising the sibling to speak directly with the client is the appropriate response to safeguard confidentiality.

D. Provide the caller with a brief update about the client's condition: Sharing any health information without the client’s express consent is a violation of HIPAA. Even a brief update constitutes a breach of confidentiality and could result in legal and professional consequences.

A. Ensure the oxygen delivery system is at least 8 feet from any heat source: Oxygen is flammable, and this safety measure helps prevent fire hazards in the home environment.

B. Store the oxygen cylinder wrench with the oxygen tank: Keeping the wrench with the tank ensures quick and easy access in case the oxygen needs to be turned on or off during an emergency.

C. Adjust the oxygen flow rate as needed to ease breathing: Clients should never adjust oxygen flow independently; flow rate changes must be prescribed and monitored by the healthcare provider to prevent complications like oxygen toxicity or hypoventilation.

D. Take antibiotic medication with or without food: This varies by antibiotic. Cefazolin, for example, was given IV in the hospital, and the oral form prescribed for home use might require food to reduce GI side effects; instructions should be drug-specific.

E. Take steroid medication in the morning: Steroids mimic the body’s natural cortisol rhythm; taking them in the morning minimizes insomnia and other endocrine side effects.

F. Decrease the steroid dose each day: Steroid tapering must follow a specific provider-prescribed regimen. Improper tapering can lead to adrenal insufficiency or withdrawal symptoms.

G. Take antibiotics for 10 days: Completing the full antibiotic course, even if symptoms improve, helps prevent antibiotic resistance and ensures complete eradication of the infection.