A nurse is caring for a client who has a closed head injury. In which of the following positions should the nurse place the client?

Choice A reason: Restricting the client's calorie intake to no more than 2,000 calories per day is not an appropriate action, as it can impair wound healing and increase the risk of infection or malnutrition. The nurse should provide adequate calories and protein to meet the increased metabolic demands and support tissue repair and regeneration.

Choice B reason: Changing sterile gloves between caring for wounds on different areas of the body is an appropriate action, as it can prevent cross-contamination and infection of the burn wounds, which are susceptible to bacterial colonization and sepsis.

Choice C reason: Limiting movement or bending of the client's affected extremities is not an appropriate action, as it can cause contractures, joint stiffness, or muscle atrophy in the burned areas. The nurse should encourage early and frequent range of motion exercises and use splints or positioning devices to maintain functional alignment and mobility.

Choice D reason: Administering a diuretic if the client's urine output falls below 30 mL/hr is not an appropriate action, as it can worsen dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or renal failure that can occur after severe burns. The nurse should monitor fluid status and urine output closely and administer intravenous fluids as prescribed to maintain adequate hydration and perfusion.

Choice A reason: Using analgesia around the clock is an appropriate action. The nurse should follow the principle of prevention rather than rescue when managing pain for a client who has terminal cancer. The nurse should administer analgesics on a regular schedule to maintain a steady level of pain relief and prevent breakthrough pain.

Choice B reason: Applying pain patches each morning and removing them at bedtime is not an appropriate action. The nurse should follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying and removing pain patches. Some patches are designed to be worn for 24 hours, while others are worn for 72 hours. Removing the patches too soon can cause inadequate pain control and withdrawal symptoms.

Choice C reason: Using intramuscular medications to control pain is not an appropriate action. The nurse should avoid using intramuscular route for administering analgesics to a client who has terminal cancer. Intramuscular injections are painful, unreliable, and increase the risk of infection and bleeding. The nurse should use oral, transdermal, or subcutaneous routes whenever possible.

Choice D reason: Decreasing a medication dose if the client develops tolerance is not an appropriate action. The nurse should understand that tolerance is a normal physiological response to long-term opioid use and does not indicate addiction or abuse. The nurse should adjust the medication dose according to the client's level of pain and response to treatment.