A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled to receive intermittent peritoneal dialysis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect action, because emptying the drainage container every 4 hr is not necessary and can interfere with the accurate measurement of the drainage volume. The drainage container should be emptied only when it is full or at the end of the shift.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect action, because changing the client's insertion-site dressing each shift can increase the risk of infection and dislodgment of the chest tube. The insertion-site dressing should be changed only when it is soiled or loose.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect action, because clamping the chest tube when the client is ambulating can cause a tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening complication of chest tube insertion. The chest tube should be clamped only when ordered by the provider or when changing the drainage system.

Choice D reason: This is the correct action, because placing the drainage unit below the client's chest level can facilitate the drainage of air and fluid from the pleural space by gravity. The drainage unit should be kept below the client's chest level at all times.

Choice A reason: This is a vague and unhelpful response, because it does not provide any information or reassurance to the client who has a new diagnosis of MS. The nurse should explain the general course of MS and the possible variations among clients.

Choice B reason: This is a sympathetic but incomplete response, because it does not address the client's question or provide any information about the course of MS. The nurse should acknowledge the client's feelings and provide factual and realistic information.

Choice C reason: This is the best response, because it provides accurate and relevant information about the course of MS, which is a chronic and progressive disease that affects the central nervous system. MS can cause acute episodes of neurological symptoms, such as vision loss, numbness, weakness, or fatigue, which are followed by periods of remission, when the symptoms improve or disappear. The length and frequency of the episodes and remissions can vary among clients.

Choice D reason: This is a dismissive and unrealistic response, because it does not answer the client's question or respect the client's right to know about the course of MS. The nurse should not avoid the client's concerns or minimize the impact of the diagnosis. The nurse should help the client cope with the uncertainty and plan for the future.