A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a new parent who is concerned about sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The correct answer is choice B: "Support the client's feet with foot boots."

Choice A rationale:

Flexing the client's feet using pillows might not be sufficient to prevent foot drop. Foot drop is a condition where the client is unable to dorsiflex their foot, and using pillows alone may not provide adequate support to prevent this condition.

Choice B rationale:

Supporting the client's feet with foot boots is the most appropriate intervention to prevent foot drop due to immobility. Foot boots are specifically designed to hold the foot in a dorsiflexed position, preventing the calf muscles from tightening and causing foot drop.

Choice C rationale:

Placing a hand roll under the client's heels might offer some relief, but it's not the most effective intervention for preventing foot drop. Hand rolls are generally used to prevent footdrop by keeping the ankles in a neutral position, rather than solely supporting the heels.

Choice D rationale:

Removing ankle-foot orthotic devices at bedtime is not recommended if the client is at risk for developing foot drop. Ankle-foot orthotic devices are designed to provide continuous support to the feet and prevent muscle contractures. Removing them at bedtime could compromise the effectiveness of the intervention.

The correct answer is choice d. Notify the charge nurse of the client’s concerns.

Choice A rationale:

Offering information about alternative therapies is not appropriate in this situation. The nurse’s role is to ensure the client understands the current procedure and to address their concerns, not to suggest alternatives unless directed by the healthcare provider.

Choice B rationale:

Contacting a family member to convince the client to change their mind is not ethical. The decision to proceed with surgery should be made by the client, based on their understanding and consent, not under pressure from family members.

Choice C rationale:

Telling the client the benefits of the surgery might be helpful, but it does not address the client’s lack of understanding about the procedure. The nurse should ensure the client has all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Choice D rationale:

Notifying the charge nurse of the client’s concerns is the correct action. The charge nurse can facilitate further discussion with the surgeon to ensure the client receives the necessary information and support to make an informed decision. This ensures that the client’s autonomy and right to informed consent are respected.