A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has a hearing aid.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take when the client reports hearing a whistling sound from the hearing aid?

Choice A rationale

Increased peripheral circulation is not a typical part of the aging process. In fact, aging is often associated with decreased circulation due to vascular changes and reduced cardiac output.

Choice B rationale

Constipation is more common in older adults due to factors like reduced intestinal motility, decreased fluid intake, and medication side effects, making it a relevant physiological change in aging.

Choice C rationale

Decreased muscle mass, or sarcopenia, is a common part of aging. It results from a combination of reduced physical activity, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies.

Choice D rationale

A decreased cough reflex in older adults increases the risk of aspiration and respiratory infections. It results from changes in neurological function and reduced muscle strength.

Choice A rationale

Using disinfectant to clean the blood pressure cuff after use is an appropriate infection control measure. It reduces the risk of cross-contamination between clients by ensuring medical equipment is sanitized.

Choice B rationale

Double-bagging a client's linens each day is not necessary unless the linens are heavily soiled or contaminated with pathogens. Routine double-bagging is not an effective infection control practice and is resource-intensive.

Choice C rationale

Wearing sterile gloves when bathing a client who is incontinent is unnecessary. Non-sterile gloves are sufficient for this task, and sterile gloves should be reserved for surgical or invasive procedures to maintain sterility.

Choice D rationale

Rinsing contaminants from a bedpan with hot water can create aerosols that spread pathogens. Proper protocol involves cleaning and disinfecting the bedpan with appropriate solutions to ensure infection control. .