A nurse is collecting a health history from the guardian of a 4-year-old child. Which of the following statements by the guardian is the priority for the nurse to address?

Instruct the client to close their mouth tightly around the mouthpiece of the inhaler. This ensures that the medication is delivered directly into the lungs and minimizes the amount of medication escaping into the surrounding environment.

The correct technique for using a metered-dose inhaler does not involve tilting the head forward.

Instead, the client should keep their head in a neutral position while using the inhaler. After inhaling the medication from the inhaler, it is recommended to hold the breath for about 10 seconds before exhaling. This allows the medication to be fully deposited in the lungs and absorbed effectively.

The proper technique for using an albuterol metered-dose inhaler involves taking a slow and deep breath. The client should depress the canister once at the beginning of inhalation and continue to inhale slowly and deeply to ensure adequate medication delivery.

It is important for the nurse to demonstrate and observe the client's technique while using the inhaler to ensure proper administration.

Pain in the calf can be a potential symptom of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious complication after surgery. Monitoring the client's pulse oximetry can help assess for signs of decreased oxygenation, which may indicate a possible clot or compromised circulation. A decrease in oxygen saturation can be an early indicator of a potential DVT-related complication, such as a pulmonary embolism. Monitoring the pulse oximetry can provide valuable information for timely intervention and management.

Instructing the client to massage the calf gently is not advisable without further assessment and evaluation. Massaging the calf can potentially dislodge a clot if one is present, leading to further complications. It is important to rule out DVT through appropriate diagnostic measures before providing specific instructions for calf massage.

Maintaining the leg in a dependent position while in bed can potentially worsen the symptoms and increase the risk of venous stasis. Elevating the affected leg, rather than maintaining it in a dependent position, can help improve venous return and reduce pain or swelling.

Applying a cold compress to the client's calf is not recommended without further assessment. Heat or cold therapy should be applied based on the underlying cause of the pain. In the case of potential DVT, applying a cold compress can increase vasoconstriction and potentially worsen the condition. It is essential to investigate the cause of the pain first and consult with the healthcare provider before initiating any specific therapies or interventions.