A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a female adolescent who has dysmenorrhea. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale:
Adolescents are at a stage of development where body image and appearance are of significant importance. Discussing how the procedure might affect the client's appearance allows the nurse to address the adolescent's concerns and fears related to changes in their body. This can help alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of control over the situation, fostering a more positive psychological response to the surgery.
Choice B rationale:
Avoiding involving the client in decisions regarding treatment (Choice B) would not be appropriate for an adolescent. Adolescents are at a stage where they are developing autonomy and decision-making skills. Excluding them from decisions about their treatment could lead to feelings of powerlessness and hinder their sense of control.
Choice C rationale:
Emphasizing that the procedure is not a punishment (Choice C) might be suitable for younger children who might associate medical procedures with punishment. However, adolescents typically do not perceive medical procedures as punishments, so this explanation may not address their specific concerns.
Choice D rationale:
Keeping equipment out of the client's sight (Choice D) might be more relevant for younger children who might be frightened by medical equipment. Adolescents are generally better able to comprehend and cope with the presence of medical equipment. Open communication about the procedure and addressing their concerns directly would be more beneficial.

Choice A rationale:
The correct answer is choice A. This action is crucial to ensure accurate capillary blood glucose testing. Allowing the skin antiseptic to dry before puncturing the child's finger helps prevent contamination of the blood sample, which can lead to inaccurate results. Wet antiseptic can dilute the blood sample and affect the glucose reading.
Choice B rationale:
This choice is incorrect because placing a cool washcloth on the child's finger is not standard practice before capillary blood glucose testing. While warmth can help increase blood flow and make the puncture process more comfortable, using a cool washcloth is not recommended, as it may constrict blood vessels and make it harder to obtain a sufficient blood sample.
Choice C rationale:
This choice is incorrect because testing the first drop of blood obtained after puncturing the child's finger is not recommended. The first drop of blood can be diluted with interstitial fluid and may not provide an accurate glucose reading. It's important to wipe away the first drop and use the subsequent drop of blood for testing.
Choice D rationale:
This choice is incorrect because puncturing the center of the pad of the child's index finger is not the recommended site for capillary blood glucose testing. The sides of the fingertip contain an adequate blood supply and are less painful for the child. Puncturing the center of the fingertip can be more painful and may not yield a sufficient blood sample.