A nurse is reinforcing teaching about foot care with a client who has type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The correct answer is: c. The AP pulls the pinna up and back.

Choice A reason: The AP inserting the probe with a straight, forward motion is not the correct technique for tympanic temperature measurement. The ear canal does not run straight forward into the head; instead, it curves slightly. Inserting the probe straight forward could potentially damage the ear canal or eardrum and would not provide an accurate temperature reading.

Choice B reason: Pointing the probe posteriorly is also incorrect. The tympanic membrane is located at the end of the ear canal, and the probe should be directed towards it. However, the probe should be angled slightly downward and toward the jawline, not straight back, to align with the ear canal and ensure an accurate reading.

Choice C reason: Pulling the pinna up and back is the correct method for adults and children over one year old. This action straightens the ear canal, allowing the thermometer’s sensor to get a clear path to the tympanic membrane, which is necessary for an accurate temperature reading. For infants, the correct method is to pull the earlobe straight back.

Choice D reason: The AP positioning the client facing her does not directly relate to the technique of measuring tympanic temperature. While it may be necessary for the AP to see the client’s ear, it is not an indication of understanding the correct procedure for tympanic temperature measurement.

Choice A rationale:

Administering an enema can help relieve the client’s abdominal cramping and small, hard, painful bowel movement. An enema is a procedure that involves introducing a liquid solution into the rectum to promote evacuation of feces. It can be used to relieve constipation, which seems to be the client’s issue based on the description of their bowel movement.

Choice B rationale:

Assisting the client with a sitz bath may not be necessary at this time. A sitz bath is typically used to soothe and cleanse the perineal area, particularly after childbirth or surgery. While the client does have a surgical incision, the notes indicate that the perineal dressing is intact with minimal serosanguinous drainage, suggesting that the incision site is not currently problematic.

Choice C rationale:

Irrigating an indwelling catheter with 500 mL of fluid is not recommended unless there is a specific indication, such as the catheter being blocked. The client’s urinary catheter is intact with 100 mL/hr of pink urine, which suggests that it is functioning properly.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging prolonged dangling before ambulation may not be beneficial for this client. Dangling involves sitting on the edge of the bed with legs hanging down before standing up. This can help prevent dizziness upon standing. However, the notes indicate that the client is already ambulating independently in the hallway, suggesting that they do not have issues with mobility or dizziness.

Choice E rationale:

Encouraging oral fluid intake can help alleviate constipation by softening stools and promoting bowel movements. It can also help maintain hydration, which is particularly important for postoperative clients. Therefore, this would be a beneficial action for the nurse to take for this client.