A nurse is providing teaching to an older adult client who has a seizure disorder and a new prescription for phenytoin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

The correct answer is choice D. Avoid using nail polish remover around the client. Nail polish remover contains acetone, which is a flammable substance that can ignite in the presence of oxygen.

Using nail polish remover around the client can increase the risk of fire and burn injuries.

Choice A is wrong because synthetic fabrics can generate static electricity, which can also cause sparks and ignite oxygen.

The client’s bedding should be made of cotton or wool, which are natural fabrics that do not produce static electricity.

Choice B is wrong because petroleum jelly is a petroleum-based product that can react with oxygen and cause skin irritation or burns.

The client should use water-based moisturizers to soothe the mucous membranes.

Choice C is wrong because alcohol-based cleaning products are also flammable and can cause fires or explosions when exposed to oxygen.

The client should use mild soap and water to clean the equipment, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.

Some general safety tips for home oxygen therapy are:

• Keep away from heat and flame, such as candles, matches, lighters, stoves, fireplaces, etc.
• Do not smoke or allow others to smoke near the oxygen source
• Do not use aerosols, vapor rubs, oils, or other products that contain flammable substances near the oxygen source
• Store oxygen tanks or cylinders in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Secure oxygen tanks or cylinders to prevent them from falling or rolling
• Use the exact rate of oxygen prescribed by the doctor for each activity
• Check the oxygen gauge or level regularly and call the medical supply company when it is low
• Use a humidifier bottle if prescribed by the doctor to prevent dryness of the mucous membranes
• Change the nasal cannula, mask, and tubing as instructed by the medical supply company to prevent

Choice A reason

Abdomen area is not appropriate: Assessing skin turgor on the abdomen is not commonly performed. The abdomen may not be the most accurate site for assessing skin turgor, especially in older adults, as it can be influenced by factors such as body fat distribution.

Choice B reason:

Shoulder are is not appropriate: The shoulder is not a typical site for assessing skin turgor. It is generally not used for this purpose, as it may not provide reliable results

Choice C reason:

Stomach is not the correct answer.: Assessing skin turgor on the stomach is also not commonly performed. The abdomen or stomach may not be the most accurate site for assessing skin turgor, especially in older adults.

Choice D reason

When assessing skin turgor in an older adult client, the nurse should lift the skin on the neck to evaluate its elasticity and hydration status. Skin turgor is a measure of skin's elasticity and is commonly used as an indicator of hydration in both adults and older adults.

To assess skin turgor, the nurse will gently pinch a small amount of skin on the back of the client's hand or the front of the chest (sternum). However, since the options listed do not include these areas, the closest alternative for an older adult would be the neck.