A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has cystic fibrosis.
Which of the following actions should the nurse instruct the client to take prior to initiating postural drainage?

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.

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Requesting additional information about the caller's relationship to the client does not ensure the caller's identity is verified, and it could still result in a breach of confidentiality.

Choice B rationale: Providing a general update about the client's condition over the telephone is not appropriate, as it could breach the client's confidentiality.

Choice C rationale: Referring the family member to the client's provider for the update respects confidentiality and ensures that information is only provided to authorized individuals, maintaining the client's privacy.

Choice D rationale: Encouraging the family member to contact the client directly for information ensures that the client has control over their own information and maintains confidentiality. This action respects the client's privacy and autonomy.