A nurse is changing the bed linen for a client who is on contact precautions. Which of the following personal protective equipment should the nurse wear?

A. A decrease in systolic blood pressure from 140 mm Hg to 120 mm Hg could indicate hypotension. Postoperatively, especially after receiving a spinal anesthetic, hypotension can occur due to vasodilation or decreased sympathetic tone. This change in blood pressure warrants notification of the provider because significant hypotension can lead to inadequate perfusion to vital organs and tissues.
B. A slight increase in temperature from 37.2°C to 37.5°C (99.0°F to 99.5°F) is a mild elevation and may not necessarily require immediate notification unless accompanied by other signs of infection or instability. It could be related to the stress response post-surgery. However, if there are other concerning signs (e.g., increased heart rate, worsening pain), the nurse should reassess and consider further action.

C. A decrease in pulse oximetry from 98% to 96% indicates a mild decrease in oxygen saturation. While this change alone may not be alarming, the nurse should assess the client's respiratory status and potential causes (e.g., positioning, respiratory depression from anesthesia). Oxygen saturation levels below 95% generally require intervention, but 96% is still within a normal range for most clients.
D. An increase in pain from 4/10 to 6/10 indicates worsening pain. Postoperatively, increasing pain may indicate inadequate pain management, worsening condition at the surgical site, or other complications such as hematoma or infection.

A. Tachycardia, or increased heart rate, can occur during hypoglycemia as a result of the body's response to low blood sugar levels. The sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to increased adrenaline (epinephrine) release, which can cause palpitations and tachycardia.

B. Polydipsia refers to excessive thirst. It is typically a symptom of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) rather than hypoglycemia. During hypoglycemia, thirst is not a common symptom.
C. Polyuria refers to excessive urination. Similar to polydipsia, it is more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) rather than hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia typically does not cause polyuria.
D. Blurred vision can occur during hypoglycemia due to changes in the shape of the lens in the eye caused by altered fluid balance due to low blood sugar levels.
E. Moist, clammy skin is a common manifestation of hypoglycemia. When blood sugar levels drop, the body's autonomic nervous system responds by releasing adrenaline, which can cause sweating and clamminess.