A nurse is caring for a client who is newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The client states, “I have no idea why I got this.” Which of the following is the most important question the nurse should ask this client while performing the assessment?

Choice A Reason: I will call your provider so we can discuss it

While this response shows the nurse’s willingness to involve the healthcare provider, it does not directly address the client’s concern about their ability to manage the prosthesis. It is important to provide immediate reassurance and encouragement to the client, which this response lacks.

Choice B Reason: What are you thinking that you would like to do?

This response is open-ended and encourages the client to express their feelings and thoughts. While it is a good approach to understand the client’s perspective, it does not provide the immediate reassurance and encouragement that the client needs to feel confident about managing the prosthesis.

Choice C Reason: You have the right to refuse if you don’t think you can do this

This response acknowledges the client’s autonomy but may inadvertently reinforce their doubts and fears about managing the prosthesis. It is important to encourage and support the client rather than focusing on their right to refuse.

Choice D Reason: Many clients your age are able to adjust surprisingly well to a prosthesis

This response is the most appropriate as it provides reassurance and encouragement to the client. By sharing that many clients of a similar age have successfully adjusted to a prosthesis, the nurse helps to build the client’s confidence and reduce their anxiety about managing the new situation. This positive reinforcement can be very motivating for the client.

Choice A Reason:

An N95 respirator is used for airborne precautions, not contact precautions. It is necessary for protecting against airborne pathogens like tuberculosis or COVID-19.

Choice B Reason:

Goggles are used to protect the eyes from splashes or sprays of infectious materials. While they can be part of contact precautions, they are not the primary PPE required for changing bed linen.

Choice C Reason:

A face shield provides protection against splashes and sprays to the face. Similar to goggles, it is not the primary PPE required for contact precautions when changing bed linen.

Choice D Reason:

This is the correct answer. Gloves are essential for contact precautions to prevent the transmission of infectious agents through direct or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces or materials. They protect the nurse from coming into contact with pathogens that may be present on the bed linen.