A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a group of expectant parents regarding the proper use of a car seat. Which of the following statements by a parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Answer: D. "Clean the prosthesis using a damp, soapy cloth."

Rationale:

A. "Keep initial pressure dressing in place for 1 week after surgery":
The pressure dressing is typically changed more frequently to monitor the incision site for signs of infection and to ensure appropriate healing. Keeping it in place for a week without monitoring could increase the risk of infection and complications.

B. "Leave the prosthesis in place when going to bed":
It is generally recommended to remove the prosthesis at night to allow the residual limb to rest and prevent skin irritation or pressure sores. Leaving it on overnight can lead to unnecessary strain on the limb.

C. "Avoid extension of the hips when lying down":
Clients should actually avoid prolonged hip flexion, not extension, as it can lead to hip contractures. Instead, they should try to lie prone periodically to stretch the hip and reduce the risk of contracture formation.

D. "Clean the prosthesis using a damp, soapy cloth":
Using a damp, soapy cloth to clean the prosthesis helps maintain hygiene and prevents skin irritation. It's important to keep the prosthesis clean to avoid any buildup of bacteria or dirt, which can affect both the device and the residual limb’s health.

c. Initiate a client referral to Reach to Recovery.

Explanation:

When caring for a female client who has a new diagnosis of breast cancer and expresses concerns about potential changes to her body image, the nurse should initiate a client referral to Reach to Recovery. Reach to Recovery is a program provided by the American Cancer Society that connects breast cancer patients with trained volunteers who have gone through a similar experience. These volunteers can provide emotional support, information, and resources to help the client cope with the physical and emotional changes that may occur due to breast cancer and its treatment.

Explanation for the other options:

a .Reassure the client that she will adjust to changes to her body:

While providing reassurance is important, it may not be sufficient to address the client's concerns about potential changes to her body image. Initiating a referral to Reach to Recovery can provide the client with additional support and resources tailored to her specific needs.

b. Contact an occupational therapist to talk with the client:

While an occupational therapist may have valuable input on certain aspects of the client's care, such as functional abilities and adaptations, initiating a referral to Reach to Recovery would be more appropriate for addressing the client's concerns related to body image.

d. Explain that surgery can restore the breast to its original appearance:

While surgery options such as breast reconstruction can restore the breast to a similar appearance, it is not appropriate for the nurse to make guarantees about the outcome or appearance of the breast after surgery. Every individual's situation is unique, and the decision to undergo surgery and the results of such procedures are dependent on various factors. Referring the client to Reach to Recovery would be more beneficial in addressing her concerns holistically.

In summary, when a client with a new diagnosis of breast cancer expresses concerns about potential changes to her body image, the nurse should initiate a client referral to Reach to Recovery. This program can provide the client with the necessary emotional support and resources to navigate the physical and emotional changes associated with breast cancer and its treatment.