A nurse is providing preoperative teaching for an adolescent who is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

a. Giving broad openings

The nurse is using the therapeutic technique of giving broad openings. This technique encourages the client to freely express themselves and choose the focus of the conversation. By asking, "What has been happening with you today?" the nurse is inviting the client to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without imposing any specific topic or direction.

Explanation for the other options:

b. Focusing: Focusing is a therapeutic technique where the nurse directs the conversation to a specific topic or issue. In this scenario, the nurse is not guiding the client's response toward a particular area of discussion.

c. Reflecting: Reflecting is a therapeutic technique where the nurse repeats or paraphrases the client's words or feelings to demonstrate understanding and encourage further exploration. The nurse's statement in this scenario does not involve reflecting the client's words or feelings.

d. Seeking clarification: Seeking clarification is a therapeutic technique used to obtain more specific information or clear up any confusion. The nurse's statement in this scenario does not involve seeking clarification from the client.

In summary, by using a broad opening, the nurse allows the client to choose the focus of the conversation

and encourages them to share their experiences and concerns.

d. Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage.

Explanation:

The correct answer is d. Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage.

When teaching an older adult client about age-related changes, it is important for the nurse to provide accurate and relevant information. Joint stiffness is a commonly experienced age-related change that occurs due to the natural loss of elasticity in joint cartilage. As people age, their joints may become stiffer and less flexible, making movements and activities more challenging.

Option a is not the correct answer. Increased nail growth due to the buildup of calcium deposits is not an expected age-related change. Nail growth is primarily determined by factors such as genetics, overall health, and nutritional status, rather than calcium deposits.

Option b is not the correct answer. Increased perspiration due to overproduction by the sweat glands is not an expected age-related change. In fact, older adults may experience a decrease in the production of sweat, which can make them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and dehydration.

Option c is not the correct answer. Increased cardiac output due to weakened heart walls is not an expected age-related change. With aging, the heart muscles may become stiffer and less efficient, leading to a decrease in cardiac output rather than an increase.

By focusing on the expected age-related change of increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage, the nurse can provide accurate information and help the older adult client understand and manage this common aspect of the aging process.