A nurse is providing care to a client who has sustained deep partial-thickness burns to the back of both legs. Which of the following actions should the nurse anticipate taking?

Choice A reason: Restricting the client's calorie intake to no more than 2,000 calories per day is not an appropriate action, as it can impair wound healing and increase the risk of infection or malnutrition. The nurse should provide adequate calories and protein to meet the increased metabolic demands and support tissue repair and regeneration.

Choice B reason: Changing sterile gloves between caring for wounds on different areas of the body is an appropriate action, as it can prevent cross-contamination and infection of the burn wounds, which are susceptible to bacterial colonization and sepsis.

Choice C reason: Limiting movement or bending of the client's affected extremities is not an appropriate action, as it can cause contractures, joint stiffness, or muscle atrophy in the burned areas. The nurse should encourage early and frequent range of motion exercises and use splints or positioning devices to maintain functional alignment and mobility.

Choice D reason: Administering a diuretic if the client's urine output falls below 30 mL/hr is not an appropriate action, as it can worsen dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or renal failure that can occur after severe burns. The nurse should monitor fluid status and urine output closely and administer intravenous fluids as prescribed to maintain adequate hydration and perfusion.

The correct answer is A:

Choice A reason:

Replace the unit when the drainage chamber is full. This ensures continuous, effective drainage. A full chamber cannot collect more fluid, risking system compromise and patient safety.

Choice B reason:

Pinning the tubing to the bed sheets is incorrect because it can cause kinks in the tubing, leading to obstruction of drainage and potential complications.

Choice C reason:

Monitoring for at least 150 mL of drainage every hour is not a standard practice. Normal chest tube drainage is variable; excessive drainage, such as 150 mL/hour, could indicate a serious condition like hemorrhage.

Choice D reason:

Clamping the tube routinely for 30 minutes every 8 hours is not recommended. Clamping may be done during tube removal or to check for air leaks but doing so routinely can lead to tension pneumothorax.