A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client who is postoperative following a simple mastectomy. The client is to begin outpatient radiation therapy the next day. Which of the following instructions about maintaining skin integrity should the nurse include?

Choice A: Growth spurt is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. The growth spurt is a period of rapid increase in height and weight that usually occurs between 10 and 14 years of age in girls. It is influenced by various factors such as genetics, nutrition, and hormones. Growth spurt usually follows the development of breast buds and pubic hair by about 6 to 12 months.

Choice B: Evidence of pubic hair is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. Evidence of pubic hair is the appearance of coarse, curly, and pigmented hair on the pubic area and around the genitals. It usually occurs between 8 and 13 years of age in girls. It is caused by the increased production of androgens (male hormones) by the adrenal glands and ovaries. Evidence of pubic hair usually follows the development of breast buds by about 3 to 6 months.

Choice C: Onset of menses is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. The onset of menses is the beginning of menstrual cycles, which are regular changes in the female reproductive system that prepare the body for pregnancy. It usually occurs between 10 and 15 years of age in girls. It is caused by the maturation of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovaries, and uterus, which regulate the levels of estrogen and progesterone (female hormones). The onset of menses usually follows the development of breast buds and pubic hair by about 2 to 3 years.

Choice D: Development of breast buds is the correct answer because it is the first event that occurs in female puberty. Development of breast buds is the enlargement and elevation of the nipples and areolas (dark circles around the nipples), which indicate the beginning of breast growth. It usually occurs between 8 and 12 years of age in girls. It is caused by the increased production of estrogen (female hormone) by the ovaries, which stimulates the growth of ducts (tubes) and lobules (glands) in the breast tissue. The development of breast buds is also called thelarche or breast stage 2.

Choice A: Limit the intake of fluid. This action is not correct and should not be taught to the client. Limiting the intake of fluid can cause dehydration, urinary tract infection, or kidney stones. The client should drink enough fluid to keep her urine clear and odorless.

Choice B: Void every hour while awake. This action is not correct and should not be taught to the client. Voiding every hour while awake can cause bladder irritation, infection, or overdistension. The client should void when she feels the urge or at least every 3 to 4 hours.

Choice C: Perform Kegel exercises daily. This action is correct and should be taught to the client. Kegel exercises are exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder and urethra. They can help improve bladder control and prevent urinary incontinence. The client should perform Kegel exercises daily by contracting and relaxing the muscles around the vagina and anus as if she is trying to stop urinating or passing gas.

Choice D: Take a laxative every night. This action is not correct and should not be taught to the client. Taking a laxative every night can cause diarrhea, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or dependence. The client should avoid constipation by eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly.