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?

Explanation

B. Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward

Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis.

Wiping any excess medication from the inner canthus outward, is important to prevent the accumulation of excessive ointment, which can cause discomfort and affect vision. Using a clean, sterile cotton ball or tissue, the nurse should gently wipe any excess ointment from the inner corner of the eye (inner canthus) and then move outward to remove the excess ointment.

Gently massaging the eyelid to facilitate absorption of the medication in (option A) is not recommended. It can potentially cause discomfort or further irritation to the affected eye, especially in a young child. The ointment will naturally spread across the eye as the child blinks.

Placing an occlusive dressing on the affected eye in (option C) is not necessary for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. It may impede proper air circulation and potentially worsen the infection. It is important to promote hygiene and prevent the spread of infection by encouraging proper handwashing and avoiding touching or rubbing the affected eye.

Instructing the guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment every morning for 14 days in (option D) is not appropriate in this case. Erythromycin is an alternative antibiotic commonly used for conjunctivitis, but since the child has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment, the appropriate course of treatment would be to follow the prescribed medication as directed by the healthcare provider.

Hypertensive crisis is a severe increase in blood pressure that can lead to organ damage or other complications. Prompt assessment and intervention are necessary to prevent further escalation of blood pressure and potential complications.

While all the clients mentioned require attention, the client with elevated blood pressure and a headache poses a higher immediate risk. The nurse should assess the client's blood pressure, evaluate for signs of target organ damage, and initiate appropriate interventions, which may include administering antihypertensive medications as prescribed and monitoring closely for any changes in the client's condition.

The client who is postoperative and reports intermittent nausea can be assessed and managed after addressing the client with the elevated blood pressure and headache.

The client scheduled for surgery in 2 hours can be addressed according to the scheduled timeline.