A nurse is reinforcing teaching about self-care with an adolescent client who has infectious mononucleosis with splenomegaly.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Obturator.

An obturator is a device that is inserted into the tracheostomy tube to guide it through the stoma and prevent tissue damage. It should be removed after the tube is inserted and kept near the bedside in case of accidental decannulation.

Choice A is wrong because povidone-iodine is an antiseptic solution that is not routinely used for tracheostomy care. It can cause skin irritation and damage to the mucous membranes.

Choice C is wrong because an irrigation set is not needed for a tracheostomy tube.

Irrigation can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. It can also cause coughing and bleeding.

Choice D is wrong because hemostats are not used for a tracheostomy tube.

Hemostats are surgical instruments that are used to clamp blood vessels or tissues. They have no role in tracheostomy care.

Some other supplies that the nurse should place in the room are a trach tube the same size as the current tube and one size smaller, a portable suction machine with battery backup, and tubing that connects to the suction machine. Other supplies may include saline solution, syringes, gauze squares, gloves, a trachea tube brush, a waterproof drape, non-woven sponges, pipe cleaners, cotton tipped applicators, a T-drain sponge, twill tape, a trach holder, a speaking valve, a stoma cover, and a nebulizer.

Observe the client’s body language during the conversation. This action will help the nurse to assess the client’s nonverbal cues and emotions, which can enhance communication and understanding. The nurse should also determine the client’s understanding several times during the conversation and use lay terms if possible.

Choice A is wrong because avoiding asking the client personal questions can hinder rapport building and prevent the nurse from obtaining important information about the client’s health and needs.

Choice C is wrong because maintaining eye contact with the interpreter when asking questions can show disrespect and disinterest to the client and his family. The nurse should look at the client and his family when asking questions, not at the interpreter.

Choice D is wrong because including medical terminology when discussing the client’s condition can confuse the client and his family and create barriers to communication. The nurse should use simple and clear language that the client and his family can understand.