A nurse is caring for a client with numerous episodes of watery diarrhea. The client reports eating some spoiled deli meat earlier in the day. The client asks if they should take loperamide (Imodium) to stop the diarrhea. What would be an appropriate response from the nurse?

Choice A Reason:

Alginate dressings are typically used for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate because they are highly absorbent. Stage I pressure ulcers do not usually produce exudate, making alginate dressings unnecessary and inappropriate for this type of wound.

Choice B Reason:

Hydrogel dressings are designed to provide moisture to dry wounds and are more suitable for wounds with minimal to no exudate. While they can be used for stage I pressure ulcers, they are not the most common choice as these ulcers do not typically require additional moisture.

Choice C Reason:

Transparent dressings are ideal for stage I pressure ulcers because they protect the skin from friction and shear while allowing for continuous observation of the wound. These dressings maintain a moist environment, which is beneficial for healing, and are easy to apply and remove without causing additional trauma to the skin.

Choice D Reason:

Wet-to-dry gauze dressings are generally used for debridement of necrotic tissue in more advanced wounds. They are not suitable for stage I pressure ulcers, which do not have necrotic tissue and do not require debridement.

Choice A Reason:

Securing the oxygen tubing to the bed sheet near the client’s head is not recommended because it can lead to accidental dislodgement of the tubing, which can interrupt the oxygen supply. Additionally, this practice does not address the potential for nasal dryness and irritation that can occur with oxygen therapy. Properly securing the tubing should involve ensuring it is comfortably positioned and not at risk of being pulled or dislodged.

Choice B Reason:

Attaching a humidifier bottle to the base of the flow meter is the correct action because it helps to add moisture to the oxygen being delivered to the client. Oxygen therapy, especially at higher flow rates like 5 L/min, can dry out the nasal passages and mucous membranes, leading to discomfort and potential complications. The humidifier bottle ensures that the oxygen is humidified, which helps to prevent dryness and irritation, making the therapy more comfortable and effective for the client.

Choice C Reason:

Applying petroleum jelly to the nares is not recommended because petroleum-based products can be flammable and pose a risk when used in conjunction with oxygen therapy. Additionally, petroleum jelly can trap bacteria and potentially lead to infections. Instead, water-based lubricants or saline nasal sprays are safer alternatives for soothing dry nasal passages.

Choice D Reason:

Removing the nasal cannula while the client eats is not advisable because it interrupts the continuous delivery of oxygen, which is essential for clients with pneumonia who may already have compromised respiratory function. Instead, the nurse should ensure that the nasal cannula is securely in place and that the client is receiving the prescribed oxygen therapy at all times, including during meals.