A nurse is reinforcing teaching about a safety plan for a client who reports partner violence. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

After a patient dies, postmortem care includes preparing them for family viewing. The nurse should place the body in the supine position, with the arms at the sides and the head on a pillow. Then elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees to prevent discoloration from blood settling in the face .

The other options are not correct because:

b) The nurse should cleanse the client's body while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) based on indications for isolation precautions, not necessarily sterile gloves.

c) If the patient wore dentures and your facility’s policy permits, gently insert them; then close the mouth

d) The nurse should close the eyes by gently pressing on the lids with their fingertips. If they don’t stay closed, place moist coton balls on the eyelids for a few minutes, and then try again to close them. Surgical tape is not mentioned as necessary .

a. "Many people have colostomies and they live full lives."

Explanation:

The correct answer is a. "Many people have colostomies and they live full lives."

When a client expresses concerns or distress regarding their colostomy and not wanting others to see the colostomy bag, it is essential for the nurse to provide support and reassurance. Responding by acknowledging that many people live full lives with colostomies helps normalize the experience and offers hope to the client.

Option b, "Would it help to speak to someone else who has a colostomy?" may be a helpful suggestion, but it should not be the initial response. First, it is important to provide immediate reassurance and support to the client before exploring additional resources or contacts.

Option c, "Why don't you want people to see the colostomy bag?" may be seen as invasive and may put the client on the spot, potentially making them feel uncomfortable or defensive. It is important to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for the client.

Option d, "The colostomy is probably only temporary," assumes information about the client's specific situation that may not be accurate. It is important to avoid making assumptions about the duration or permanence of the colostomy unless the client has shared that information. Providing false reassurances can negatively impact the client's trust and emotional well-being.

By responding with the statement that many people live full lives with colostomies, the nurse offers support, normalizes the client's experience, and promotes a positive outlook for the client's future.