A nurse is teaching a client about the use of ice for treatment of a soft-tissue injury. Which of the following instructions should be included? (Select All that Apply.)

Choice A Reason: Try to defecate at different times of the day

This statement is not advisable for clients with constipation. Regularity is key in managing constipation. Encouraging the client to try to defecate at the same time each day can help establish a routine and improve bowel regularity. The body’s natural circadian rhythms can aid in this process, making it easier to have a bowel movement at a consistent time.

Choice B Reason: Consume a low-fiber diet

A low-fiber diet is not recommended for clients with constipation. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps it pass more easily through the intestines. Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Increasing dietary fiber intake is a common and effective strategy for managing constipation. The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men.

Choice C Reason: Reduce your daily activity

Reducing daily activity is not beneficial for managing constipation. Physical activity helps stimulate intestinal function and can promote regular bowel movements. Encouraging clients to engage in regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help alleviate constipation. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.

Choice D Reason: Increase your daily fluid intake

Increasing daily fluid intake is a key recommendation for managing constipation. Fluids help soften the stool, making it easier to pass. Water is the best choice, but other fluids like herbal teas and clear soups can also be beneficial. It is generally recommended to drink at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water per day, though individual needs may vary based on factors such as age, sex, and activity level.

Choice A Reason: WBC Count 22,000/mm³

A white blood cell (WBC) count of 22,000/mm³ is significantly higher than the normal range, which is typically between 4,000 and 11,000/mm³. An elevated WBC count, known as leukocytosis, often indicates the presence of an infection as the body produces more white blood cells to fight off pathogens. This elevated count can also be seen in other conditions such as inflammation, stress, or bone marrow disorders, but it is a strong indicator of infection.

Choice B Reason: Hgb 15 g/dL

Hemoglobin (Hgb) levels of 15 g/dL fall within the normal range for adults, which is generally 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL for males and 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL for females. Normal hemoglobin levels indicate that the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity is adequate and do not specifically point to an infection.

Choice C Reason: Creatine kinase 75 units/L

Creatine kinase (CK) levels of 75 units/L are within the normal range, which is typically 24 to 204 U/L. CK is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle, and elevated levels can indicate muscle damage, myocardial infarction, or other conditions affecting these tissues. However, normal CK levels do not indicate the presence of an infection.

Choice D Reason: Platelet count 200,000/mm³

A platelet count of 200,000/mm³ is within the normal range, which is generally between 150,000 and 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Platelets are involved in blood clotting, and normal levels do not indicate an infection. Abnormal platelet counts can be associated with bleeding disorders or thrombosis, but a normal count does not suggest an infection.