A nurse is making an initial postpartum home visit. Which of the following client statements should the nurse identify as a manifestation of increased risk for child abuse?

Choice A reason:

Substitute tobacco use with an electronic cigarette Electronic cigarette, also known as e-cigarettes or vapes, are not recommended as a primary treatment for nicotine withdrawal. While they may be considered less harmful than traditional tobacco products, their long-term safety and effectiveness in helping individuals quit smoking are still a subject of debate and research. It is generally better to opt for proven nicotine replacement therapies, such as nicotine gum, patches, lozenges, or other medications approved by healthcare providers for smoking cessation.

Choice B reason:

Limitin use of nicotine gum to 6 months is the correct choice. When discussing treatment options with a client experiencing nicotine withdrawal, the nurse should include the information that the use of nicotine gum should be limited to 6 months. Nicotine gum is a form of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) used to help individuals quit smoking by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

However, prolonged use of nicotine gum can lead to its own dependence on nicotine, which is counterproductive to the goal of quitting smoking altogether. The use of NRT is typically recommended for a limited duration, and the goal is to gradually reduce the dosage over time until the individual can comfortably quit nicotine use altogether.

Choice C reason:

Using progressively larger nicotine patches Using progressively larger nicotine patches is not a recommended approach for nicotine withdrawal. Nicotine patches are available in different strengths, and the appropriate dosage should be determined based on the individual's smoking history and nicotine dependence. Starting with the appropriate strength and gradually reducing the dosage over time is the preferred approach to help clients quit smoking.

Choice D reason:

Using up to 40 nicotine lozenges per day the use of nicotine lozenges should be guided by the instructions provided with the product or as prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is not advisable to exceed the recommended dosage. Using excessive amounts of nicotine lozenges or any other NRT product can lead to nicotine toxicity and other adverse effects.

I will need to keep my hand elevated above my heart for several days.” This statement indicates that the client understands the importance of reducing swelling and inflammation in the affected hand after carpal tunnel surgery.

Elevation promotes venous return and prevents fluid accumulation in the tissues.

Choice A is wrong because applying heat for the first 24 hours can increase blood flow and swelling in the hand, which can cause more pain and delay healing. Ice packs are recommended for the first 24 to 48 hours to reduce inflammation.

Choice B is wrong because the client should not avoid using the affected hand for 4 to 6 weeks, as this can lead to stiffness, muscle atrophy, and decreased range of motion. The client should move the fingers periodically and perform gentle exercises as prescribed by the surgeon or physical therapist.

Choice C is wrong because numbness and tingling in the hand are signs of nerve compression, which is the main cause of carpal tunnel syndrome.

The client should expect these symptoms to improve or resolve after surgery, not persist or worsen. If the client experiences numbness and tingling after surgery, they should report it to the surgeon as it may indicate a complication such as nerve injury or hematoma.

Normal ranges for grip strength, pinch strength, and keypinch strength vary depending on age, sex, and hand dominance. However, a general reference for grip strength is 20 to 40 kg for men and 15 to 30 kg for women. For pinch strength, it is 6 to 12 kg for men and 5 to 10 kg for women. For keypinch strength, it is 4 to 8 kg for men and 3 to 7 kg for women.

These values may be lower in older adults or people with chronic conditions.

The client should expect some loss of strength in the affected hand after surgery, but it should gradually improve with rehabilitation.