A nurse is using a glucometer to measure a client's capillary blood glucose level.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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 rationale:

This action requires intervention by the nurse. Antiembolic stockings should be smooth and free of creases to ensure even pressure distribution along the legs. Creases, especially if on the front of the legs, can lead to areas of increased pressure, which might compromise circulation and increase the risk of skin breakdown or clot formation.

Choice B rationale:

Applying the stockings before the client gets out of bed is correct. Antiembolic stockings should be applied before the client gets out of bed to prevent blood from pooling in the legs, which can help reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client to point their toes before applying the stockings is a correct action. This helps in the proper fitting of the stockings and ensures they are applied smoothly without causing discomfort.

Choice D rationale:

Turning the stockings inside out (at least down to the heel) before applying them is a common technique to make it easier to position the stocking on the foot and leg properly. This method helps avoid excessive stretching of the stocking and ensures a better fit.