A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has atrial fibrillation and reports dizziness and palpitations. Which of the following should the nurse understand is the cause of these manifestations?

A. "I stopped taking aspirin last week.": Stopping aspirin medication prior to surgery is often advised to reduce the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. The nurse may confirm the timing of discontinuation with the client and verify if any other anticoagulant medications are being taken.

B. "I did not put my contact lenses in this morning.": Removing contact lenses before surgery is a routine precaution to prevent potential corneal abrasions or complications during the procedure. This statement indicates the client is following preoperative instructions.

C. "I took my blood pressure meds with a sip of water.": Taking blood pressure medications with a small amount of water is generally acceptable before surgery. However, the nurse may verify the specific medications the client is taking and their dosing schedule to ensure compliance.

D. "I had a cough and runny nose a couple days ago.": This statement requires further investigation as respiratory symptoms, such as cough and runny nose, may indicate an underlying respiratory infection. Infections can increase the risk of complications during surgery, such as anesthesia-related respiratory issues or postoperative infections. The nurse should assess the severity and duration of the symptoms, inquire about any fever or recent exposure to illnesses, and consider notifying the surgical team for further evaluation and decision-making regarding the client's surgical readiness.

Answer: A, B, and C

Rationale: A) Falls: Falls are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) across all age groups, especially among older adults and young children. Falls can occur due to various factors such as slipping, tripping, or accidents from heights.

B) Violence: Acts of violence, including assaults, gunshot wounds, and domestic abuse, are significant contributors to TBIs. These traumatic events can result in head injuries with varying degrees of severity, depending on the force and nature of the trauma.

C) Sports-related injuries: Participation in contact sports or activities with a risk of collision or impact, such as football, soccer, or cycling, can lead to TBIs. Athletes may experience concussions or more severe head injuries during games or practice sessions.

D) Working as a firefighter: While occupations like firefighting can expose individuals to hazardous situations, including fires and building collapses, they are not typically cited as primary causes of TBIs. However, firefighters may face head injury risks while performing their duties, especially during rescue operations or structural collapses.

E) Working in a factory: While accidents in industrial settings can lead to various injuries, including head trauma, they are not among the primary causes of TBIs. However, workers in factories or industrial environments may face risks associated with machinery accidents, falling objects, or workplace incidents.