A nurse is caring for a client who has a chlamydial infection and a new prescription for doxycycline. The client reports nausea and vomiting after starting the medication. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse make?

Correct answer: D

a.Artificial flowers are generally considered safer than fresh flowers because they do not harbor water, which can be a source of bacterial growth. However, they can collect dust, which might carry pathogens, though this is typically a lesser concern compared to fresh flowers.

b. Being assigned to a room with negative airflow is actually beneficial for a client with an immunocompromised condition, as it helps prevent the spread of airborne pathogens.

c.Hard boiled eggs do not inherently increase the risk of infection. However, it is important to ensure that all food items are properly prepared, handled, and stored to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

d. Fresh fruit can harbor bacteria and other pathogens on their surfaces, which can pose a significant risk to a neutropenic patient. Even with thorough washing, there is a higher risk compared to cooked or pasteurized foods.

Explanation

B. Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward

Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis.

Wiping any excess medication from the inner canthus outward, is important to prevent the accumulation of excessive ointment, which can cause discomfort and affect vision. Using a clean, sterile cotton ball or tissue, the nurse should gently wipe any excess ointment from the inner corner of the eye (inner canthus) and then move outward to remove the excess ointment.

Gently massaging the eyelid to facilitate absorption of the medication in (option A) is not recommended. It can potentially cause discomfort or further irritation to the affected eye, especially in a young child. The ointment will naturally spread across the eye as the child blinks.

Placing an occlusive dressing on the affected eye in (option C) is not necessary for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. It may impede proper air circulation and potentially worsen the infection. It is important to promote hygiene and prevent the spread of infection by encouraging proper handwashing and avoiding touching or rubbing the affected eye.

Instructing the guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment every morning for 14 days in (option D) is not appropriate in this case. Erythromycin is an alternative antibiotic commonly used for conjunctivitis, but since the child has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment, the appropriate course of treatment would be to follow the prescribed medication as directed by the healthcare provider.