A nurse is planning teaching for a client who has a new diagnosis of HIV. Which of the following information should the nurse include about preventing the spread of the infection?

A. Sensation of skin warmth: A warm sensation is common during cardiac catheterization due to the injection of contrast dye. This feeling is typically brief and harmless, and clients should be reassured that it is an expected part of the procedure.
B. Numbness and tingling of the extremities: These symptoms may indicate compromised circulation or nerve involvement and are not expected during the procedure. If they occur, they require immediate assessment and intervention.
C. Increased salivation: Increased salivation is not associated with cardiac catheterization. It could suggest a reaction to medication or another unrelated issue, but it is not a normal response during this procedure.
D. Headache: Headaches are not expected during cardiac catheterization. If a client develops a headache, it could be related to contrast dye sensitivity, blood pressure changes, or anxiety, and would require further evaluation.

Rationale for Correct Answers:

• LDL level: An LDL level of 145 mg/dL exceeds the recommended limit (<130 mg/dL), increasing the client’s risk for atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Elevated LDL contributes to plaque buildup in arterial walls, narrowing the vessels and raising the likelihood of myocardial infarction and stroke.
• BMI: A BMI of 29.8 falls in the overweight range (25–29.9), nearing obesity. Excess body weight, particularly visceral fat, is associated with hypertension, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, all of which are significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Rationale for Incorrect Answers:

• Exercise: The client walks 30 minutes 5 days a week, meeting the American Heart Association’s guidelines for physical activity. Regular aerobic exercise reduces blood pressure, improves lipid profiles, and strengthens cardiac function.
• Diet: The client reports following a Mediterranean diet, which is associated with lower cardiovascular risk due to its emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Although wine consumption is noted, moderation aligns with Mediterranean patterns.
• HDL level: The client’s HDL is 58 mg/dL, which is above the desired threshold (>55 mg/dL). Higher HDL levels offer cardioprotective effects by helping remove cholesterol from the bloodstream and reducing the risk of plaque buildup.