A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has influenza. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

Choice A Reason:
Preparing the sterile dressing supplies 30 min before the dressing change is correct. While it's crucial to have all supplies ready before starting the procedure, preparing them 30 minutes in advance might not align with the principles of maintaining sterility. It's generally best to prepare sterile supplies just before the procedure to minimize the risk of contamination.
Choice B Reason:
Don sterile gloves before removing the dressing is incorrect. Sterile gloves should indeed be worn during the dressing change, but they should be put on after removing the old dressing. This ensures that the clean gloves don't touch potentially contaminated surfaces during the removal of the old dressing.
Choice C Reason:
Disinfect the wound bed with alcohol before applying tape is incorrect. Using alcohol to disinfect the wound bed is not recommended as it can cause tissue irritation and delay wound healing. Sterile saline or another wound cleansing solution prescribed for wound care would be more appropriate to clean the wound bed. Additionally, applying tape directly to the wound is generally avoided to prevent further damage to the fragile tissues of a pressure ulcer.
Choice D Reason:
Offering the client pain medication before the procedure is correct. Providing pain medication before the procedure ensures the client's comfort and helps manage any discomfort or pain associated with the dressing change, particularly when dealing with a stage III pressure ulcer, which can be quite sensitive.

Choice A Reason

Using a hair dryer to blow hot air into the cast is not recommended. It can cause burns, soften the cast material, or create hot spots, potentially leading to skin damage or discomfort for the client.

Choice B Reason:

Perform neurovascular checks of the affected extremity every 2 hours is correct. Performing neurovascular checks regularly is crucial to assess the circulation, sensation, and movement of the affected extremity. This monitoring helps identify any signs of compromised blood flow or nerve function, which could indicate complications such as compartment syndrome.

Choice C Reason:

Positioning the fractured arm below the level of the client's heart is not advisable. Elevating the injured limb above heart level can help reduce swelling and promote blood flow, aiding in the healing process and preventing complications like swelling-related discomfort or decreased circulation.

Choice D Reason:

Immobilizing the client's fingers using a hand splint might not be necessary with a short arm cast. Typically, a short arm cast provides immobilization of the wrist and forearm while allowing some movement and function of the fingers unless specifically directed by the healthcare provider for individual circumstances.