A nurse is caring for a client who has AIDS.
Which of the following solutions should the nurse use to disinfect the client's overbed table following a blood spill?

Choice A rationale:

Using a firm-bristled toothbrush can increase the risk of gum injury or bleeding, especially in individuals with pernicious anemia who may have fragile gums due to vitamin B12 deficiency. This choice is correct because it identifies a risk factor for injury.

Choice B rationale:

Prescribing vitamin B12 intramuscularly (IM) is the appropriate treatment for pernicious anemia and does not increase the client's risk of injury. It is essential for addressing the underlying deficiency.

Choice C rationale:

Prescribing epoetin intravenously (IV) is used to stimulate the production of red blood cells and treat anemia, but it is not typically associated with an increased risk of injury. However, it should be administered as ordered by the healthcare provider.

Choice D rationale:

Sleeping 8 to 10 hours per night is beneficial for overall health and well-being. It does not increase the client's risk of injury. In fact, adequate sleep can help with tissue repair and overall recovery.

Answer is B: Write the information at an 8th-grade reading level.

This is the best action for the nurse to take because it ensures that the information is accessible and understandable to a wide audience, which is suitable for the general population¹². The other options are not as effective for the following reasons:

- Use a 12-point font size: This is important for readability, but not enough for comprehension. The font size should also match the layout and design of the brochure.
- Explain medical terminology using basic, one-syllable words: This is a good approach, but it does not address the reading level of the content. The nurse should also use simple sentences and avoid jargon.
- Present information from complex to simple: This might be helpful, but it is not the most effective way to educate the public. The nurse should start with the simpler concepts and gradually build on them to explain the more complex aspects of hypertension.