A nurse is caring for a client whose child died from cancer.
The client states, "It's hard to go on without him." Which of the following questions should the nurse ask the client first?

The correct answer isChoice D, remove the protective gown while in the client’s room.

Choice A rationale: Wearing a face shield is not specifically required for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) precautions. CDI is primarily spread through the fecal-oral route, and while a face shield could provide protection against splashes during procedures that might generate them, it is not a standard precaution for entering the room of a patient with CDI.

Choice B rationale: Placing a mask on the client during transport is not a standard precaution for CDI. While it is important to prevent the spread of infection, CDI is not transmitted through the respiratory route, so a mask for the client would not be necessary in this context.

Choice C rationale: Using an alcohol-based hand rub is generally recommended for hand hygiene. However, for CDI, alcohol-based hand rubs are not effective against C. difficile spores. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing hands with soap and water after caring for patients with CDI to physically remove the spores from the hands.

Choice D rationale: Removing the protective gown while still in the client’s room is the correct action to prevent the spread of contamination. Gowns should be removed before leaving the patient’s room to avoid dispersing contaminants to other areas of the healthcare facility.

Infection control for CDI involves several specific actions due to the resilience of C. difficile spores. These spores can survive on surfaces for a long time and are resistant to many common disinfectants, which is why environmental cleaning and disinfection with agents effective against C. difficile, such as bleach-based products, are crucial. Additionally, healthcare workers should use gloves and gowns when entering the rooms of patients with CDI and should ensure that these are disposed of correctly after use.

The correct answer is choiceC. “Have your child drink a small glass of water after swallowing the medication.”

Choice A rationale:

Adding digoxin to a half-cup of juice is not recommended because it can affect the absorption of the medication.It is best to give digoxin on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food if necessary.

Choice B rationale:

Limiting potassium intake is incorrect.In fact, maintaining adequate potassium levels is important because low potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.

Choice C rationale:

Having the child drink a small glass of water after taking the medication helps ensure that the medication is swallowed completely and reduces the risk of esophageal irritation.

Choice D rationale:

Repeating the dose if the child vomits within 1 hour is not recommended. If a dose is vomited, it should not be repeated to avoid the risk of overdose.The next dose should be given at the regular scheduled time.