During a skin inspection at the outpatient clinic, the nurse notices patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales on the client's elbows and knees. What skin abnormality does the nurse suspect?

Choice A reason: Intermittent flatus and minor abdominal discomfort are not signs that would prompt the nurse to call the provider immediately. They are common and expected after surgery and anesthesia. They indicate that the client's bowel function is returning to normal.

Choice B reason: A minor headache and taking an overthe counter pain pill at home are not signs that would prompt the nurse to call the provider immediately. They are mild and manageable symptoms that may be related to stress, dehydration, or caffeine withdrawal. They do not indicate a serious complication or adverse reaction.

Choice C reason: Refusing pain medication and doing physical therapy are not signs that would prompt the nurse to call the provider immediately. They are indicators of the client's preference and motivation to recover. They may also suggest that the client's pain is wellcontrolled or tolerable.

Choice D reason: Paresthesia in the fingers and intense increasing pain in the shoulder are signs that would prompt the nurse to call the provider immediately. They are indicators of a possible nerve injury, compression, or ischemia that may result from the surgery, swelling, or hematoma. They may also indicate a worsening of the client's rheumatoid arthritis or a development of a complex regional pain syndrome. They require prompt assessment and intervention to prevent permanent damage or disability.

Choice A reason: Include many fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet is not a correct answer, because it may increase the risk of infection for the client with AIDS. Fresh fruits and vegetables may contain bacteria, parasites, or pesticides that can cause gastrointestinal or systemic infections in immunocompromised clients. The nurse should advise the client to wash, peel, or cook fruits and vegetables before eating them, or to avoid them altogether if they have diarrhea or low white blood cell counts.

Choice B reason: Drink at least 2 to 3 L of fluids per day is a correct answer, because it helps prevent dehydration, maintain electrolyte balance, and flush out toxins and waste products. Fluid intake is especially important for clients with AIDS who may experience fever, sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, or oral lesions that can cause fluid loss.

Choice C reason: Eat highcalorie foods is a correct answer, because it helps prevent weight loss, muscle wasting, and malnutrition. Clients with AIDS may have increased caloric needs due to increased metabolic rate, infection, inflammation, or medication side effects. Highcalorie foods can provide energy and support immune function.

Choice D reason: Lower your caloric intake is not a correct answer, because it can worsen the nutritional status and health outcomes of the client with AIDS. Lowering caloric intake can lead to weight loss, muscle wasting, malnutrition, and increased susceptibility to infections and complications. The nurse should encourage the client to meet or exceed their caloric needs based on their weight, activity level, and disease stage.

Choice E reason: Choose foods high in protein is a correct answer, because it helps maintain muscle mass, tissue repair, and immune function. Clients with AIDS may have increased protein needs due to increased protein breakdown, infection, inflammation, or medication side effects. Highprotein foods can provide amino acids and antibodies that are essential for immune response.