A nurse is caring for a client who has moderate hypothermia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A) Asking the client how she feels about her understanding of diabetes can provide some insight into her confidence and perceived knowledge. However, it does not objectively measure her actual understanding or ability to apply diabetes management information.

B) Asking the client how often she reads food labels assesses a specific behavior related to diabetes management but does not fully evaluate the client's overall health literacy. The frequency of reading food labels may indicate some level of engagement, but it does not necessarily reflect comprehensive understanding or effective diabetes self-management.

C) Requesting the client to explain what she read from a brief handout about diabetes management provides a direct assessment of her comprehension and retention of diabetes management information. This approach effectively measures her ability to understand and apply critical health information, which is a core component of health literacy.

D) Inquiring about the timing of her last HbA1c test assesses adherence to diabetes monitoring but does not gauge the client's understanding of diabetes management. While important, this question does not provide a clear picture of her health literacy or ability to manage her condition effectively.

A) "You will be allowed to drive yourself home within 6 hours following the procedure."This statement is incorrect. After an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), the patient is typically sedated, and the sedation can affect their alertness, coordination, and judgment. It is generally recommended that patients arrange for someone else to drive them home. It is unsafe for the patient to drive themselves after sedation, even if they feel alert. The nurse should instruct the client to have someone accompany them to the procedure and drive them home afterward.

B) "You might experience a hoarse voice for several days following the procedure."This statement is correct. A hoarse voice is a common and expected side effect after an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, as the procedure involves passing a flexible tube (endoscope) through the mouth and throat. The endoscope may cause irritation to the vocal cords or the lining of the throat, leading to a hoarse voice that can last for a few days. This is a normal, transient effect and should be explained to the patient in advance so they are not alarmed.

C) "You can have a clear liquid diet for breakfast prior to the procedure."This statement is incorrect. For most procedures like EGD, patients are typically instructed to fast for at least 6 to 8 hours prior to the procedure to ensure the stomach is empty. Having food or liquids before the procedure may increase the risk of aspiration or interfere with the examination. The nurse should educate the client to follow fasting instructions and avoid consuming any food or liquids, including clear liquids, as per the healthcare provider's guidelines.

D) "You should not take any of your routine medications until after the procedure is complete."

This statement is generally incorrect. Many patients are instructed to continue taking routine medications, especially if they are vital for managing chronic conditions, unless otherwise directed by the healthcare provider. In some cases, medications such as anticoagulants, aspirin, or certain blood pressure medications may need to be withheld temporarily before the procedure. However, the nurse should clarify with the healthcare provider which medications the client should stop or continue taking before the procedure. The patient should not withhold medications on their own without proper guidance.