A nurse is caring for a male client who has a spinal cord injury.
Which of the following techniques should the nurse use when providing perineal care?

Choice A rationale:

Maintaining the irrigation solution rate is appropriate in this situation. Pink-tinged urine in the drainage bag indicates the presence of blood, which is expected after a transurethral resection of the prostate. However, if the bleeding becomes excessive, the healthcare provider should be notified. Adjusting the irrigation solution rate might be necessary based on the provider's orders, but abruptly changing the rate without medical direction could lead to complications.

Choice B rationale:

Replacing the indwelling urinary catheter is not necessary solely based on the presence of pink-tinged urine. It is essential to assess the patient's overall condition and the extent of bleeding before considering catheter replacement. Catheter replacement without a valid reason can increase the risk of infection and discomfort for the patient.

Choice C rationale:

Performing the Credé's maneuver involves manual compression of the bladder to assist with urine elimination. This maneuver is not indicated in this situation and could potentially cause harm or disrupt the continuous bladder irrigation. It is essential to follow evidence-based practices and avoid interventions that are not appropriate for the patient's condition.

Choice D rationale:

Warming the irrigation solution is not relevant to the situation described. The presence of pink-tinged urine suggests bleeding, which requires careful monitoring and appropriate medical intervention. Warming the solution does not address the underlying cause of the bleeding and should not be the nurse's primary concern in this scenario.

The correct answer is: b. A room containing personal belongings.

Choice A rationale: A room without a window may lead to disorientation and a lack of natural light, which can disrupt the client's circadian rhythm, contributing to sleep disturbances and mood alterations. Adequate exposure to natural light helps regulate the body's internal clock and promotes a sense of well-being. Furthermore, natural light exposure has been linked to improved cognitive function and mood stability in individuals with cognitive impairments. Therefore, choosing a room with a window is essential for optimizing the client's therapeutic environment.

Choice B rationale: A room containing personal belongings is crucial for creating a therapeutic environment for a cognitively impaired client. Familiar items provide a sense of security and continuity, reducing anxiety and agitation. These belongings serve as anchors to the client's past experiences and identity, facilitating reminiscence therapy and promoting emotional connection. By surrounding the client with familiar objects, the nurse fosters a sense of autonomy and self-expression, empowering the client to engage in meaningful activities and maintain a sense of personal agency.

Choice C rationale: While proximity to the nursing station may facilitate monitoring and prompt intervention in case of emergencies, a room adjacent to the nursing station can also expose the client to constant noise and disruptions. Excessive auditory stimuli can overwhelm a cognitively impaired individual, leading to sensory overload and exacerbating confusion and disorientation. Moreover, the lack of privacy in such a location may compromise the client's dignity and autonomy, hindering their ability to engage in personal activities and interactions. Therefore, placing the client in a quieter, more secluded environment away from the nursing station is preferable for promoting a therapeutic atmosphere conducive to rest and relaxation.

Choice D rationale: Dim lighting poses significant risks for cognitively impaired clients, as it impairs visual perception and increases the likelihood of accidents and falls. Inadequate lighting compromises safety by obscuring obstacles and hazards in the environment, heightening the risk of injuries and fractures. Additionally, dimly lit spaces can exacerbate feelings of fear and anxiety, particularly in individuals with cognitive impairments who may already experience sensory processing difficulties. Bright lighting, on the other hand, enhances visibility and spatial orientation, promoting independence and confidence in daily activities. Therefore, ensuring sufficient illumination in the client's room is essential for mitigating safety hazards and optimizing their overall well-being.