An nurse is caring for a client who has acute osteomyelitis. Which of the following interventions is the nurse's priority?

Choice A reason: Inflammation is not an example of a client's primary defense to infection. Inflammation is a secondary defense to infection, which is activated after the primary defense has been breached. Inflammation is a complex process that involves the release of chemical mediators, the dilation of blood vessels, the increase of blood flow, the migration of white blood cells, and the formation of exudate. Inflammation aims to contain, neutralize, and eliminate the infectious agent and to repair the damaged tissue.

Choice B reason: Fever is not an example of a client's primary defense to infection. Fever is a secondary defense to infection, which is activated after the primary defense has been breached. Fever is an elevation of the body temperature above the normal range, which is usually 36.5 to 37.5 degrees Celsius or 97.7 to 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Fever is a systemic response to infection that is regulated by the hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain that controls the body's thermostat. Fever enhances the immune system's activity and inhibits the growth of some pathogens.

Choice C reason: Phagocytosis is not an example of a client's primary defense to infection. Phagocytosis is a secondary defense to infection, which is activated after the primary defense has been breached. Phagocytosis is a process that involves the engulfment and destruction of foreign particles, such as bacteria, by specialized cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils. Phagocytosis is a type of cellular immunity that eliminates the infectious agent and prevents its spread.

Choice D reason: Intact skin is an example of a client's primary defense to infection. Intact skin is the first and most important line of defense against infection, as it forms a physical barrier that prevents the entry of pathogens into the body. Intact skin also has chemical and biological properties that resist infection, such as the acidic pH, the secretion of sebum and sweat, and the presence of normal flora. Intact skin protects the underlying tissues and organs from infection and injury.

Choice A reason: "You should never go around people after your baby is born." is not a good response, because it is unrealistic, rigid, and dismissive of the mother's concern. It does not acknowledge the benefits of social interaction and support for the mother and the baby, nor the risks of isolation and depression. It also does not provide any evidence or rationale for the advice.

Choice B reason: "Tell me more about that." is the best response, because it is openended, empathetic, and respectful of the mother's concern. It invites the mother to share her feelings and thoughts, and allows the nurse to explore the source and extent of the mother's anxiety. It also creates an opportunity for the nurse to provide education and reassurance based on the mother's needs.

Choice C reason: "I did that, and my kids turned out just fine." is not a good response, because it is personal, irrelevant, and unprofessional. It does not address the mother's concern, but rather shifts the focus to the nurse's own experience, which may not be applicable or helpful to the mother. It also implies that the mother's concern is unfounded or exaggerated, and may make the mother feel judged or defensive.

Choice D reason: "Why do you think that is a bad idea?" is not a good response, because it is closedended, confrontational, and accusatory. It does not show empathy or respect for the mother's concern, but rather challenges or criticizes it. It may make the mother feel defensive or guilty, and may discourage further communication.