A nurse is preparing an in-service presentation about preventing health care associated infections (HAIs).
The nurse should include which of the following as a common cause of these infections?

This is because a fall risk wristband alerts the staff and other caregivers that the client is at risk of falling and needs extra precautions and supervision. A walker, a cane, or a chair on either side of the bed are not priority interventions for a fall risk client, as they do not address the root cause of the problem or prevent potential falls.

Choice A is wrong because a walker may not be appropriate for the client’s condition or mobility level, and it may pose a tripping hazard if not used correctly.

Choice B is wrong because placing a chair on either side of the bed may limit the client’s access to the bed or the bathroom, and it may also create clutter and obstruction in the room.

Choice C is wrong because a cane may not provide enough stability or support for the client, and it may also be difficult to use in narrow spaces or on slippery surfaces.

Splenomegaly and jaundice are signs of hemolytic anemia, a disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than they are made.

Splenomegaly is an enlargement of the spleen, which may trap and destroy healthy red blood cells. Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by the buildup of bilirubin, a waste product of hemoglobin breakdown. Choice A is wrong because red, sore tongue is a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, not hemolytic anemia.

Choice B is wrong because pica is a craving for nonfood items, such as ice, dirt, or starch. It is a sign of iron deficiency anemia, not hemolytic anemia. Choice D is wrong because paresthesias are sensations of tingling, numbness, or prickling in the hands or feet. They are a sign of pernicious anemia, a type of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, not hemolytic anemia.

Normal ranges for red blood cell count are 4.5 to 5.9 million cells per microliter for men and 4.1 to 5.1 million cells per microliter for women. Normal ranges for hemoglobin are 13.5 to 17.5 grams per deciliter for men and 12.0 to 15.5 gramsper deciliter for women. Normal ranges for bilirubin are 0.1 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter for adults.