A nurse is setting up a sterile field prior to changing a client's dressing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

During bladder irrigation, the nurse should instill a specific volume of the prescribed irrigation solution into the bladder to facilitate the removal of clots, mucus, or other debris from the urinary catheter and bladder. The recommended volume to instill is usually 400 to 500 mL, which helps to effectively flush out the bladder without overdistending it.

Choice B rationale:

Clamping the drainage tubing distal to the injection port during bladder irrigation is incorrect. The drainage tubing should remain unclamped to allow the irrigation solution to flow into the bladder and facilitate the removal of debris. Clamping the tubing would prevent the solution from entering the bladder and hinder the irrigation process.

Choice C rationale:

Using a syringe with a 19-gauge needle is not relevant to the process of bladder irrigation. Bladder irrigation is typically performed using a specific irrigation kit that includes appropriate tubing and components, not a syringe and needle.

Choice D rationale:

Withdrawing the irrigation solution into the syringe is not a standard procedure during bladder irrigation. The purpose of bladder irrigation is to instill a specific volume of solution into the bladder and then allow it to drain out, flushing the bladder in the process. Drawing the solution back into a syringe after instillation would disrupt the intended irrigation process.

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging the client to ambulate is not appropriate when the client has a high fever of 40°C (104°F). Ambulation requires physical exertion and can potentially worsen the client's condition, especially when they are already experiencing discomfort due to the fever.

Choice B rationale:

Giving the client a cold sponge bath might seem like a logical approach to reduce fever; however, it is not the most effective and safest method. Cold water can cause vasoconstriction and shivering, potentially increasing the body's metabolic demands and raising the temperature further. Additionally, sudden temperature changes can be uncomfortable and may not provide sustained fever reduction.

Choice C rationale:

Administering antipyretics as prescribed is the correct choice. Antipyretic medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, work to lower fever by acting on the hypothalamus, the body's temperature-regulating center. By reducing fever, the body's metabolic rate and oxygen consumption are decreased, which can help prevent complications associated with high fever, such as dehydration and discomfort.

Choice D rationale:

Providing a cooling fan can offer some comfort, but it might not be sufficient to effectively lower the client's high fever. Fans primarily work by promoting evaporative cooling, which may not be efficient when the body temperature is significantly elevated. Additionally, relying solely on a cooling fan might delay the necessary intervention of administering antipyretic medication.