A nurse is preparing to administer a dose of digoxin to a client who is experiencing heart failure. Which of the following actions should the take prior to administering this medication?

A. Use humor to decrease tension: Humor may not translate well across cultures and languages, and it can lead to miscommunication or offend the client unintentionally. It is better to maintain a respectful, clear, and professional communication style when using an interpreter.

B. Speak in short sentences: Using short, clear sentences helps the interpreter accurately convey the nurse’s message to the client. It allows for better understanding and avoids overwhelming the interpreter with complex information that could get misinterpreted.

C. Speak in third person: Speaking in third person can cause confusion and distance the nurse from the client. It is best to speak directly to the client using first and second person ("I" and "you") so the interaction feels more personal and respectful.

D. Talk directly to the interpreter: The nurse should always speak directly to the client, maintaining eye contact and body language with the client. The interpreter is there to facilitate communication, not to replace the direct interaction between the nurse and the client.

A. "I limit my time spent out in the sunlight.": While moderate sun exposure can be beneficial for psoriasis, excessive sun exposure can worsen the condition or increase the risk of skin cancer. Limiting sunlight is generally a safe practice unless the client is avoiding it entirely, which is not indicated here.

B. "I try not to look at the scales on my body.": This statement suggests significant emotional distress or poor coping related to body image. Psoriasis can have profound psychological effects, including depression and anxiety, which must be reported to the provider to address the client’s mental health needs alongside physical treatment.

C. "I remove old medication on my skin before applying a new dose.": Proper application of topical medications includes cleaning old residue to promote better absorption of the new dose. This practice is appropriate and demonstrates an understanding of correct medication use.

D. "I do not use fabric softener when I wash my clothing.": Avoiding fabric softeners is a helpful strategy for clients with psoriasis because softeners can leave residues that irritate sensitive skin. This statement reflects good self-care behavior rather than a concern needing provider intervention.