A nurse is preparing discharge information for a client who has type 2 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following information resources should the nurse provide to the client?

Rationale:

A. The client brushes her teeth twice daily: Brushing teeth at least twice a day is recommended to reduce plaque buildup, prevent tooth decay, and maintain oral health. This practice is consistent with standard personal hygiene guidelines.

B. The client wipes back to front when toileting: Wiping from back to front increases the risk of transferring bacteria from the anal area to the urethra, which can lead to urinary tract infections. The correct method is front to back.

C. The client washes her perineum first when bathing: The perineal area should be washed last to avoid transferring bacteria from this region to other parts of the body, especially the face. Washing it first increases the risk of cross-contamination.

D. The client takes a hot bubble bath every day: Daily hot bubble baths can dry out the skin and disrupt normal skin flora, potentially leading to irritation or infection. Mild, less frequent bathing with warm (not hot) water is healthier for skin integrity.

Rationale:

A. Limit visitors to 30 min per day: Time restrictions help reduce others’ exposure to radiation from the sealed implant. Limiting duration minimizes cumulative exposure for visitors while still allowing social interaction for the client.

B. Place the client in a semi-private room: Clients with internal radiation implants require a private room to protect others from unnecessary radiation exposure. A semi-private room increases the risk of radiation exposure to other patients and is inappropriate.

C. Instruct visitors who are pregnant to remain 3 feet from the client: Pregnant visitors should avoid contact with clients receiving internal radiation entirely, as even minimal exposure could harm the fetus. The safest recommendation is to avoid visiting during treatment.

D. Wear a lead apron when providing care: A lead apron shields the nurse from radiation exposure, especially when working close to the client. This is part of the time, distance, and shielding principles for radiation safety.

E. Close the door to the client's room: Keeping the door closed helps contain radiation within the client’s room, reducing exposure to staff and visitors in nearby areas. This is a standard precaution in caring for clients with sealed implants.