A nurse is teaching a female client about personal hygiene. Which of the following client actions indicates an understanding of teaching?

A. Cleanse the insertion site of the drain using a circular motion toward the center: Proper technique involves cleaning from the least contaminated area (the center) outward to the surrounding skin, not toward the center, to prevent introducing pathogens into the wound.

B. Irrigate the wound with a low-pressure flow of solution: Low-pressure irrigation helps remove debris and exudate without damaging tissue or disrupting healing. It is a safe and effective method for cleansing an abdominal incision.

C. Irrigate the wound using a 10-mL syringe: Using a small syringe can create high-pressure flow, which may traumatize tissue. Larger volume syringes (e.g., 30–60 mL) with controlled, low-pressure flow are recommended for wound irrigation.

D. Cleanse the wound starting at the bottom and moving upward: Wound cleaning should proceed from the least contaminated area (top or center of the incision) toward more contaminated areas (periphery) to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria into the wound.

Rationale for correct choices:

• Prescribed medication: The client is taking hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic that can cause dizziness, orthostatic hypotension, and increased nighttime urination. These side effects increase the risk for falls, especially in older adults who may already have mobility limitations.
• Blood pressure readings: The client’s blood pressure dropped from sitting 138/84 mm Hg to standing 100/70 mm Hg, indicating orthostatic hypotension. This sudden decrease in blood pressure can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting, all of which increase the likelihood of falls.
• Voiding pattern: The client reports waking 2–3 times per night to void. Nocturia increases fall risk because the client must get up in low-light conditions, potentially while drowsy, making them more susceptible to tripping or losing balance.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Gait: The client’s gait is steady, and no abnormalities were noted during assessment. While gait disturbances can increase fall risk, in this case, the client’s mobility does not currently contribute to risk.
• Reports of home environment: The client has already removed throw rugs and increased lighting, implementing effective fall prevention strategies at home. Therefore, the home environment does not currently place the client at increased risk for falls.