A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for a continuous passive motion (CPM) machine following a total knee arthroplasty. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Assess peripheral circulation hourly. This is correct because clients with SCD are at risk of vaso-occlusive crisis, which can impair blood flow to the extremities and cause tissue ischemia and necrosis. The nurse should monitor for signs of poor circulation such as pallor, coolness, numbness, or pain.

B. Assess the client's mouth every 8 hr. This is correct because clients with SCD are prone to oral ulcers, infections, and dental problems due to chronic anemia and reduced oxygen delivery to the oral mucosa. The nurse should inspect the mouth for lesions, bleeding, inflammation, or infection and provide oral hygiene as needed.

C. Use humidification with oxygen therapy. Administer IV fluids. This is correct because clients with SCD need adequate hydration and oxygenation to prevent sickling of red blood cells and further complications. Humidification helps moisten the airways and prevent dehydration of the mucous membranes. IV fluids help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance and reduce blood viscosity.

D. Raise the knee position on the client's bed. This is incorrect because this can impede venous return and worsen peripheral circulation. The nurse should keep the client's extremities in a neutral position and avoid tight or restrictive clothing or devices.

E. Use an automated blood pressure cuff on the client's arm. Prepare for platelet transfusion. This is incorrect because this can cause mechanical trauma to the arm and trigger a vasoocclusive crisis. The nurse should use a manual blood pressure cuff and avoid applying pressure to the arm. Platelet transfusion is not indicated for clients with SCD unless they have thrombocytopenia or bleeding.

Choice A rationale:

Limiting fluid intake to 1 liter per day can lead to dehydration and other health complications. It is important for the client to maintain adequate hydration, especially postpartum. This option is incorrect and potentially harmful.

Choice B rationale:

Manual expression of milk can help relieve engorgement without stimulating further milk production. This method allows the client to express milk as needed. However, it can be done even before engorgment occurs

Choice C rationale:

Wearing a snug-fitting bra can provide support and comfort.

Choice D rationale:

Applying moist heat to the breasts can stimulate milk production and relieve engorgement. However, in this case, the client wants to suppress lactation. Therefore, this option is not appropriate and may have the opposite effect of increasing milk production.