A nurse is reinforcing teaching about preventing dental caries with the parent of a 12-month- old toddler. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?

The correct answer is D. Compare bilateral pedal pulses.

Rationale: The nurse should compare bilateral pedal pulses to assess for adequate circulation and perfusion to the lower extremities. Buck's traction is a type of skin traction that is widely used for broken femurs and hips, as well as fractures in the socket portion of the "ball-and-socket" hip joint (acetabular fractures). It uses splints, bandages, and adhesive tapes to position a limb near the fracture, then weights and pulleys are attached and pressure is applied. The nurse should not remove the weights for 20 min for the client's report of severe pain, as this would disrupt the alignment and traction of the fracture .

The nurse should not position the knot of the rope at the top of the pulley, as this would interfere with the smooth movement of the rope and reduce the effectiveness of traction. The nurse should not apply 6.8 kg (15 lb) of weight for use in traction, as this would exceed the recommended weight limit for skin traction and could cause skin damage or nerve injury. The weight should not exceed 4.5 kilograms at any point.

The correct answer is Choices A, C, and D.

Choice A rationale:

The statement, "I should avoid douching or using tampons for 24 hours after the Pap smear," demonstrates an understanding of post-procedure instructions. It reflects awareness of the need to avoid introducing foreign substances into the vagina immediately after the procedure, which could interfere with the accuracy of the results or increase the risk of infection. By abstaining from douching or tampon use, the client follows recommended guidelines for post-Pap smear care, promoting optimal healing and accuracy of results.

Choice B rationale:

The statement, "I can resume sexual activity as soon as I leave the clinic," is incorrect and does not reflect an understanding of post-Pap smear instructions. Resuming sexual activity immediately after the procedure is not recommended, as it may increase the risk of infection or discomfort. The client should be advised to abstain from sexual activity for a specified period, typically recommended by the healthcare provider, to allow for proper healing and to minimize the risk of complications.

Choice C rationale:

The statement, "It’s normal to experience some mild cramping or spotting after the procedure," demonstrates an understanding of common post-Pap smear symptoms. Mild cramping and spotting are normal reactions to the procedure and are not typically indicative of a problem. By acknowledging these potential side effects, the client shows awareness of what to expect after the Pap smear and is better prepared to manage any discomfort that may arise.

Choice D rationale:

The statement, "I should call the clinic if I experience heavy bleeding or foul-smelling discharge," reflects an understanding of the importance of monitoring for signs of complications post-procedure. Heavy bleeding or foul-smelling discharge may indicate an infection or other issues that require prompt medical attention. By instructing the client to contact the clinic in such situations, the nurse ensures that the client knows how to respond appropriately to potential complications, promoting their overall well-being and timely intervention if necessary.

Choice E rationale:

The statement, "I can expect the results of my Pap smear in about 2-3 days," is incorrect and does not reflect an understanding of the typical timeline for receiving Pap smear results. Pap smear results usually take longer, often a week or more, to be processed and interpreted by the laboratory. Providing accurate information about result expectations is essential for managing the client's post-procedure anxiety and ensuring realistic expectations regarding follow-up.