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?

Choice A rationale:

Taking antibiotics when having a virus is not a correct understanding of infection prevention. Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and should only be used for bacterial infections under the guidance of a healthcare provider. This statement indicates a misunderstanding of infection prevention.

Choice B rationale:

Washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water is the recommended practice for infection prevention. Washing hands for 10 seconds may not be sufficient to remove all germs effectively. This statement does not demonstrate a proper understanding of hand hygiene.

Choice C rationale:

Cleaning a cat's litter box during pregnancy is not recommended due to the risk of contracting toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that can harm the fetus. Pregnant individuals should avoid handling cat litter to prevent exposure to this infection. This statement indicates a lack of awareness regarding infection prevention during pregnancy.

Choice D rationale:

Waiting 5 days after the chickenpox sores have crusted before visiting a person with chickenpox demonstrates an understanding of infection prevention. Chickenpox is highly contagious, and individuals should avoid close contact until the sores have fully healed and crusted over. This statement reflects appropriate knowledge about preventing the spread of contagious diseases during pregnancy.

Choice A rationale:

Baked potato chips are a healthier alternative to regular potato chips because they contain less fat due to the baking process. However, they are still a processed snack and might not be the healthiest option, especially for a school-age group. The high sodium content in many baked chips is also a concern for cardiovascular health.

Choice B rationale:

A milkshake made with whole milk might provide essential nutrients like calcium and protein, but it is also high in calories and can be loaded with sugar, especially if additional sugars or syrups are added. Consuming sugary beverages in excess can contribute to weight gain and dental issues.

Choice C rationale:

"Air-popped popcorn." This is the correct answer. Air-popped popcorn is a healthy whole-grain snack option. It is low in calories, high in fiber, and can be a good source of antioxidants. It is important to note that while air-popped popcorn is healthy, adding excessive butter, salt, or sugar can diminish its nutritional value.

Choice D rationale:

Cheesecake is a rich, high-calorie dessert that is not considered a healthy snack option. It is high in saturated fats, sugars, and calories, making it an occasional treat rather than a suitable healthy snack choice for school-age children.