A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with the family of an older adult client about safety precautions when administering a hypotonic enema to the client. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

The correct answer is choice c. The restraints are secured with a quick-release knot.

Choice A rationale:

The restraints should never be attached to the side rails of the bed. This can cause injury if the side rails are moved up or down. Instead, restraints should be attached to a part of the bed frame that does not move.

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should be able to insert only two fingers under the secured restraint. If three fingers can be inserted, the restraint is too loose and may not effectively prevent the patient from harming themselves or others.

Choice C rationale:

Securing the restraints with a quick-release knot is correct because it allows for easy and rapid removal in case of an emergency.

Choice D rationale:

The soft pad of the restraint should face the client’s skin to prevent skin irritation and injury. If the soft pad faces away from the skin, it can cause discomfort and potential harm.

A. Keep the finger in a dependent position:

• Keeping the finger in a dependent position (lower than the heart) helps promote blood flow to the fingertips, making it easier to obtain a blood sample. This position can facilitate the formation of a blood drop, improving the chances of obtaining an adequate sample for testing.

B. Wear sterile gloves:

• Sterile gloves are not typically necessary for routine capillary blood glucose monitoring. Clean, non-sterile gloves are generally sufficient for this procedure. However, the nurse should perform proper hand hygiene to minimize the risk of contamination.

C. Select the central tip of a finger:

• The central tip of the finger is more sensitive, and choosing this area may cause greater discomfort for the client. The sides of the fingertips are often preferred for capillary blood glucose testing as they have a good blood supply and are less sensitive.

D. Test the first drop of blood that forms after the puncture:

• The initial drop may contain tissue fluid or contaminants from the puncture site, so it is important to use the first drop to obtain a representative blood sample. This step contributes to the accuracy of the blood glucose measurement.