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:

(Correct Choice) Checking the expiration date on the safety inspection sticker of the pump is essential to ensure the equipment is functioning properly and safely. Using expired equipment can compromise the client's safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.

Choice B rationale:

Verifying that the extension cord for the pump is ungrounded is important for electrical safety. However, it is not the nurse's responsibility to do this. This action should be performed by a qualified electrician or facility maintenance personnel.

Choice C rationale:

Reporting the pump with a frayed cord is essential. However, it is not safe to proceed with the infusion in this situation. Using damaged equipment can lead to electrical hazards and compromise the client's safety.

Choice D rationale:

Obtaining a surge protector is important for protecting the pump and other electrical appliances from power surges. While this is a good practice, it is not the first action the nurse should take when preparing to initiate intravenous fluids.

The correct answer is choice d.

Choice A rationale:

Washing the penis from scrotum to tip using a spiral motion can trap bacteria under the foreskin and increase risk of infection.

Choice B rationale:

Soap helps remove dirt and bacteria, reducing infection risk. Soapy water is preferred over plain water for perineal care.

Choice C rationale:

While hand hygiene is crucial, sterile gloves are not typically required for routine perineal care in an SCI patient unless there's a break in the skin or a high risk of infection.

Choice D rationale:

Discarding the washcloth after cleansing the urethral meatus is essential to prevent transferring bacteria to other areas.