A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching about postpartum activity restrictions to a client who had a cesarean birth 2 days ago. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Rationale:

A. Inform the caregiver that it is okay to use the same towels: Sharing towels can spread impetigo, which is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection. Families should be instructed to use separate towels, washcloths, and linens to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

B. Request the provider to prescribe an antiviral medication: Impetigo is caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, not viruses. Antibacterial agents, not antivirals, are the appropriate treatment for managing this condition.

C. Place the toddler on droplet precautions: Impetigo primarily spreads through direct contact with lesions or contaminated objects, not respiratory droplets. Standard precautions with contact isolation are typically used rather than droplet precautions.

D. Prevent the toddler from scratching their skin by using elbow restraints: Scratching can worsen impetigo lesions and lead to further bacterial spread or secondary infection. Using soft restraints like elbow splints can safely discourage scratching and promote healing while preventing the infection from spreading.

Rationale:

A. Attempt to extinguish the fire before evacuating clients: The priority is client safety. Attempting to extinguish a fire should only be done if the fire is small, contained, and the area has been cleared. Evacuation takes precedence over suppression efforts.

B. Aim the spray of the fire extinguisher at the top of the fire: The correct technique is to aim at the base of the fire to effectively cut off the fuel source. Aiming at the top will not extinguish the fire and may waste the extinguisher’s contents.

C. Open nearby doors and windows when the fire alarm sounds: Opening doors and windows can cause the fire to spread more rapidly by feeding it with oxygen. Doors should remain closed to help contain the fire and reduce the spread of smoke.

D. Have ambulatory clients walk independently to a safe location: Encouraging ambulatory clients to move independently helps prioritize assistance for those who are immobile or require more support. This approach ensures a quicker, safer evacuation process.