A nurse is planning care for a client who has terminal cancer and is nearing the end of life. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?

A. Place the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla: This is the correct method for taking an axillary temperature in infants, which is the recommended route due to safety and ease. The tip should be placed snugly in the center of the axilla and the infant's arm should be held firmly against their body to ensure accuracy.
B. Pull the pinna of the infant's ear forward before inserting the probe: This technique is used for otoscopic or tympanic temperature readings in children under 3, but tympanic readings are not preferred in young infants due to the small size and curvature of their ear canals, which can lead to inaccuracy.
C. Insert the oral thermometer in front of the infant's tongue: Oral temperature measurement is inappropriate for infants. They may not be able to keep the thermometer properly positioned, which increases the risk of inaccurate readings or injury.
D. Insert the probe 3.8 cm (1.5 in) into the infant's rectum: Rectal temperature measurement is not routinely recommended unless specifically indicated, and the probe should only be inserted about 1.3 cm (0.5 in) for infants to avoid rectal perforation. The option listed suggests unsafe depth.

• Tocolytic medication: Tocolytics are used to suppress preterm labor, which is not applicable for this postpartum client. There is no indication of uterine contractions needing suppression.
• Intravenous antibiotic: The client exhibits signs of postpartum endometritis—including fever, uterine tenderness, foul-smelling lochia, and a very high WBC count (33,000/mm³). These findings strongly support the need for IV antibiotics to treat the infection.
• Intrauterine tamponade balloon: This device is used for managing postpartum hemorrhage, which is not present in this case. The client’s lochia is moderate, not excessive, and her uterus is responding to massage.
• Kleihauer-Betke test: This test is used to detect fetal-to-maternal hemorrhage, particularly in Rh-negative mothers after trauma or potential placental separation. It is not relevant in the context of postpartum infection.
• Increase in daily fluid intake: The client is febrile and shows signs of systemic infection. Increased fluids support hydration, promote recovery, and help manage the effects of fever and infection, making this an appropriate supportive measure.