A nurse is preparing to give a bed bath to a client who had a cerebrovascular accident (CVA). Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Dispose of the client's feces and urine in a special container.

Choice A rationale:

This is the correct choice. Brachytherapy involves the placement of a radiation source in or near the tumor. To minimize radiation exposure to others, the client's bodily fluids (feces and urine) should be considered radioactive and disposed of properly in a designated container.

Choice B rationale:

While limiting the time of visitors can be a good measure to reduce radiation exposure, it is not the priority intervention. The primary concern is proper handling and disposal of radioactive bodily fluids.

Choice C rationale:

Keeping the client's linens in the room until after removal of the radiation source is not the correct choice. Radioactive linens should be handled and laundered separately, following appropriate safety protocols.

Choice D rationale:

Providing one dosimeter badge for staff to share while caring for the client is not adequate. Each staff member involved in direct care should have their dosimeter badge to monitor their individual radiation exposure levels.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should wash the client in a distal to proximal direction during a bed bath after a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) to prevent the risk of clot dislodgement. This method ensures that any potential clots or debris are moved away from the central circulation, reducing the risk of harm.

Choice B rationale:

Using a circular motion with the washcloth can increase friction and potentially irritate the skin. Clients with a history of CVA might have reduced sensation or mobility, making them susceptible to skin breakdown. Hence, avoiding circular motions is important to prevent skin damage.

Choice C rationale:

Massaging the legs after completing the bath can also pose a risk of clot dislodgement. It is essential to avoid vigorous massage on areas affected by deep vein thrombosis (DVT) to prevent complications like pulmonary embolism.

Choice D rationale:

There is no need to disconnect the IV tubing before performing the bath unless specifically indicated by the healthcare provider. In general, clients receiving continuous IV infusions can continue the infusion while maintaining proper infection control measures during the bath.