A nurse is reinforcing teaching about laboratory testing with a client.

Which of the following findings should the nurse include as an indicator of infection?

A. Protein supports tissue repair, maintains muscle mass, and provides sustained energy. Leukemia and its treatments can lead to muscle wasting and general weakness, so additional protein can help counteract these effects and improve energy levels. It is also essential for immune support as well.

B.Increasing fluids to 4 L per day is generally excessive and may not be appropriate for this client. Excessive fluid intake can place strain on the cardiovascular system, which could be problematic, especially if the client is receiving chemotherapy or other treatments that may impact fluid balance.

C.Continual bed rest is not recommended, as it can contribute to deconditioning, muscle atrophy, and worsening fatigue over time. While rest periods are essential for clients experiencing fatigue, it is equally important to incorporate balanced, low-intensity activity to maintain strength and circulation.

D.Such exercises require significant energy and exertion, which might not be tolerable and could exacerbate fatigue. Instead, gentle, low-impact activities like walking or stretching are more appropriate for maintaining function without overwhelming the client’s energy reserves.

Regular physical exercise has been shown to promote better sleep. Engaging in daily exercise can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle, promote relaxation, reduce anxiety and stress, and increase overall sleep quality. It is important to note that exercise should ideally be done earlier in the day, at least a few hours before bedtime, as exercising too close to bedtime may actually have a stimulating effect and make it harder to fall asleep.

The other options listed are not the most appropriate recommendations for addressing difficulty in falling asleep:

1. "Sleep longer hours on the weekend." This suggestion may disrupt the client's sleep routine and can lead to inconsistent sleep patterns throughout the week, potentially making it more challenging to fall asleep on subsequent nights.
2. "Keep the television volume low while you are trying to fall asleep." It is generally recommended to create a sleep-friendly environment, which includes reducing external stimuli like noise, light, and electronic devices in the bedroom. However, watching television right before bedtime can interfere with sleep as the bright light and stimulating content can keep the mind awake.
3. "Remain in bed until you fall asleep." This recommendation may contribute to increased frustration and anxiety if the client is unable to fall asleep quickly. It is generally advised to practice good sleep hygiene, which includes getting out of bed if unable to fall asleep after a reasonable amount of time and engaging in a relaxing activity until feeling sleepy again.