A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who is taking acetaminophen to relieve headache pain.

Which of the following conditions in the client's history should the nurse identify as a contraindication?

The correct answer is B. Productive cough with thick mucus. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis bacteria. It causes severe coughing spells that can interfere with breathing and produce a characteristic whooping sound when inhaling. The cough may also be accompanied by thick mucus that can be difficult to clear. Therefore, a nurse should expect to see a productive cough with thick mucus as a manifestation of pertussis in a child. The other options are not typical manifestations of pertussis, but rather of other conditions. A beefy, red tongue may indicate vitamin B12 deficiency or pernicious anemia. Facial erythema may indicate fever, allergy, or inflammation. Peeling of the hands and feet may indicate Kawasaki disease, a rare inflammatory disorder that affects the blood vessels.

Choice A reason:

Allow the client's partner to translate. While the partner may be well-intentioned, using a family member or friend as an ad-hoc interpreter can compromise the confidentiality of the information and may not accurately convey the client's medical concerns.

Choice B reason:

Have the client's child translate. Relying on a child to translate sensitive medical information is inappropriate, as it may burden the child and may lead to potential misunderstandings or omissions in communication.

Choice C reason:

Ask a nursing student who speaks the same language as the client to translate. Although a nursing student who speaks the same language as the client may be able to assist, using a professional interpreter is the preferred option. Professional interpreters have specific training in medical terminology and communication, ensuring the most accurate and effective exchange of information.

Choice D reason:

Using a professional interpreter is essential in situations where the healthcare provider and the client do not speak the same language. It ensures accurate communication, maintains confidentiality, and prevents misunderstandings. In this scenario, the nurse should request an interpreter who is proficient in the client's language to assist with the admission process.