A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for a mastectomy. The client tells the nurse. "I'm not sure I want to have a mastectomy." Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Choice A Reason:

Changing the catheter dressing daily - While it's important to maintain the dressing and keep it clean and dry, changing the dressing daily might not be necessary. The dressing should be changed according to facility policy and based on assessment findings.

Choice B Reason:

Cleaning the insertion site using 20 mL of hydrogen peroxide - Hydrogen peroxide is not recommended for cleaning PICC line insertion sites, as it can cause tissue irritation. The insertion site should be cleaned with an appropriate antiseptic solution per facility guidelines.

Choice C Reason:

Use a 10-mL syringe to flush the line. When completing discharge teaching for a client with a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line, the nurse should include instructions regarding the proper care of the line. Using a 10-mL syringe to flush the line is the appropriate practice to prevent excessive pressure within the catheter and minimize the risk of catheter damage or rupture.

Choice D Reason:

Not elevating the arm above the level of the heart - Elevation of the arm above the heart level is generally not contraindicated for a PICC line. However, it's important to avoid activities that could lead to kinking or pulling on the line. The nurse should provide specific instructions regarding arm movement and care to the client.

Choice A Reason:

The client reports being extremely thirsty with a sore throat - This could be due to the presence of the NG tube and suctioning, but it is not as immediately concerning as the change in drainage colour.

Choice B Reason:

The client's abdomen becomes distended and firm - While this could indicate a possible complication, it is not as directly related to the change in drainage colour.

Choice C Reason:

The drainage is bright green in colour with brown faecal material the finding that the drainage from the NG tube is bright green in colour with brown faecal material should be reported to the provider. This change in the colour and appearance of the drainage can be indicative of bilious (greenish-yellow) vomiting, which may suggest an obstruction or another underlying issue. It's important to assess the client's condition and inform the provider about any significant changes in their symptoms.

Choice D Reason:

The amount of drainage is gradually decreasing - Gradually decreasing drainage could be expected as the condition improves, but it's not as alarming as a change in the drainage colour.