A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 18 hr postpartum. The nurse notes that the client is in the "taking-in phase of maternal adjustment. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

Choice A reason:

"I should gargle with an alcohol-based mouthwash to kill germs”. This statement is not appropriate. Using an alcohol-based mouthwash is not recommended for a client with stomatitis. Alcohol can be irritating to the already inflamed mucous membranes and may worsen the condition. Instead, the client should use a mild, non-alcohol-based mouthwash or rinse as prescribed by the healthcare provider.

Choice B option

"I should limit my intake of dairy products to prevent nausea." This statement is not appropriate. While some clients may experience nausea during radiation therapy, limiting dairy products is not specifically related to stomatitis management. The client should follow any dietary recommendations provided by the healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to address nausea or other dietary concerns.

Choice C option

"I should moisten my lips with lemon-glycerine swabs." This is incorrect because lemon-glycerine swabs can be drying and irritating to the oral mucosa, which may exacerbate stomatitis symptoms. Instead, using a gentle, non-irritating lip balm or petroleum jelly is preferred.

Choice D option

"I should use a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean my teeth after meals. “This response indicates an understanding of the teaching because a soft-bristle toothbrush is gentle on the gums and oral tissues, which is important for a client with stomatitis, as it helps to minimize irritation and injury.

The correct answer is B. "You will need to urinate before the procedure." The rationale for this information is that intermittent catheterization is a method of draining urine from the bladder using a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. It is used to measure residual urine, which is the amount of urine left in the bladder after voiding. Residual urine can indicate problems with bladder function, such as obstruction, infection, or nerve damage .

To measure residual urine, the client should first empty their bladder by urinating normally. Then, the nurse will insert the catheter into the urethra and advance it into the bladder.The nurse will measure the amount of urine that drains out of the catheter and record it as residual urine. The nurse will then remove the catheter and dispose of it .