A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client diagnosed with osteoarthritis who reports joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of the teaching?

Immunocompromised individuals have a weakened immune system, which makes them more susceptible to infections. Soiled linens, when placed on the floor, can potentially harbor pathogens and become a source of contamination. It is essential to handle soiled linens properly by placing them in designated containers or bags to prevent the spread of infectious agents.

Uncapped sharps put in a puncture-resistant container: This is the correct practice for disposing of sharps, such as needles or lancets. Uncapped sharps should always be placed in puncture-resistant containers to prevent accidental injuries and potential transmission of infections.

Dampened cloths used for dusting the area: Dampened cloths for dusting can help minimize the dispersal of dust and allergens, but it does not necessarily pose a significant risk of infection.

However, it is important to ensure that the dampened cloths are properly cleaned and sanitized to prevent the growth and spread of microorganisms.

Waste containers lined with single bags: Waste containers lined with single bags are a common practice for proper waste management and disposal. While it is important to maintain good waste management practices to prevent the spread of infections, the use of single bags alone does not significantly affect the risk of infection for immunocompromised clients.

c. Instruct the client to use abdominal breathing.

When a client is experiencing a panic atack, the nurse's first priority is to help the client manage their symptoms and provide immediate relief. Instructing the client to use abdominal breathing is the most appropriate initial intervention.

Explanation for the other options:

a. Discuss the client's feelings prior to the panic atack. While discussing the client's feelings can be beneficial in addressing the underlying causes of anxiety, it may not be the most effective immediate intervention during a panic atack. The client's focus during a panic atack is typically on managing the physical symptoms and regaining control.

b. Encourage the use of positive self-talk strategies. Positive self-talk can be helpful in managing anxiety in general, but during a panic atack, the individual may have difficulty engaging in positive self-talk due to the intensity of symptoms. Addressing the immediate physical symptoms is a priority before exploring coping strategies.

d. Administer an anti-anxiety medication. Medication administration may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the first-line intervention for managing a panic atack. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as breathing techniques, should be implemented first. If the panic atack persists or worsens despite these interventions, medication may be considered.

In summary, during a panic atack, the immediate focus should be on helping the client manage their symptoms. Instructing the client to use abdominal breathing can help promote relaxation and reduce the intensity of the panic atack.