A nurse is providing information to a client immediately before his scheduled Romberg test.

Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

A. Assess peripheral circulation hourly. This is correct because clients with SCD are at risk of vaso-occlusive crisis, which can impair blood flow to the extremities and cause tissue ischemia and necrosis. The nurse should monitor for signs of poor circulation such as pallor, coolness, numbness, or pain.

B. Assess the client's mouth every 8 hr. This is correct because clients with SCD are prone to oral ulcers, infections, and dental problems due to chronic anemia and reduced oxygen delivery to the oral mucosa. The nurse should inspect the mouth for lesions, bleeding, inflammation, or infection and provide oral hygiene as needed.

C. Use humidification with oxygen therapy. Administer IV fluids. This is correct because clients with SCD need adequate hydration and oxygenation to prevent sickling of red blood cells and further complications. Humidification helps moisten the airways and prevent dehydration of the mucous membranes. IV fluids help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance and reduce blood viscosity.

D. Raise the knee position on the client's bed. This is incorrect because this can impede venous return and worsen peripheral circulation. The nurse should keep the client's extremities in a neutral position and avoid tight or restrictive clothing or devices.

E. Use an automated blood pressure cuff on the client's arm. Prepare for platelet transfusion. This is incorrect because this can cause mechanical trauma to the arm and trigger a vasoocclusive crisis. The nurse should use a manual blood pressure cuff and avoid applying pressure to the arm. Platelet transfusion is not indicated for clients with SCD unless they have thrombocytopenia or bleeding.

Choice A rationale:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is recommended for adolescents and young adults to prevent HPV-related cancers and diseases. However, in the context of older adults, especially those who are not previously vaccinated, the priority shifts to other immunizations that are more relevant to their age group.

Choice B rationale:

Rotavirus vaccination is administered to infants to protect against rotavirus infections, which can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. It is not a priority immunization for older adults. Older adults are at higher risk for certain diseases, and their immunization focus should be on vaccines that prevent those specific conditions.

Choice C rationale:

Diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (DTaP) vaccination is essential for children and adults, especially for those who have not received a complete series of vaccinations. However, the question specifies older adults, and DTaP is typically administered to children. While it is crucial for healthcare providers and family members to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations, other immunizations are more pertinent for older adults.

Choice D rationale:

Herpes zoster vaccination (shingles vaccine) is recommended for adults aged 50 years and older. Herpes zoster is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. Older adults are at higher risk of developing shingles, and vaccination can reduce the likelihood of the disease and its complications. Therefore, the nurse should recommend the herpes zoster vaccine to the group of older adults as it aligns with their age and addresses a specific health risk they face.