The nurse is assessing a client who is having pain of the right upper abdominal area. To assess the quality of the client's abdominal pain, which approach should the nurse use?

A. Clamping the urinary catheter prior to the collection:

This step involves temporarily stopping the flow of urine through the catheter. Whether gloves are needed for this step depends on the specific protocol and the potential risk of exposure to bodily fluids. If there's a possibility of urine leakage or splashing during the clamping process, gloves may be necessary to protect against contact with the urine.

B. Recording the output on the flowsheet in the client's room:

This step involves documenting the urine output on a flowsheet or chart. It typically does not require direct contact with bodily fluids, as the nurse is handling paperwork rather than the urine itself. Therefore, gloves are usually not necessary for this task.

C. Transporting the urine specimen to the laboratory:

Once the urine specimen has been collected and properly sealed in a biohazard bag, the nurse transports it to the laboratory for analysis. As long as the specimen is securely packaged, there is no need for gloves during transportation unless there is a risk of spillage or leakage. However, if there is a possibility of contact with bodily fluids due to leakage, gloves should be worn to protect against exposure.

D. Using the syringe to remove the specimen from the catheter:

This step involves using a sterile syringe to withdraw the urine from the catheter for collection. Since it involves direct contact with bodily fluids (i.e., urine), gloves are necessary to protect against potential exposure to pathogens. Wearing gloves during this step helps maintain proper infection control practices and minimizes the risk of contamination.

A. Suctions secretions from the posterior pharynx:

Suctioning secretions from the posterior pharynx is an appropriate action to maintain airway patency and prevent aspiration in an unconscious client. This action indicates proper understanding of oral care principles.

B. Tests for a gag reflex before performing oral care:

Testing for a gag reflex before performing oral care is an important safety measure, especially in unconscious clients, to prevent aspiration or airway obstruction. This action indicates proper assessment and consideration of the client's protective reflexes.

C. Places the client in a supine position:

Placing an unconscious client in a supine position during oral care can increase the risk of aspiration, as it may impair the client's ability to manage oral secretions. The preferred position for oral care in unconscious clients is typically a side-lying position to facilitate drainage of oral secretions and reduce the risk of aspiration.

D. Uses an oral airway to keep the teeth apart:

Using an oral airway to keep the teeth apart is not a standard practice for oral care in unconscious clients and may not be necessary. Proper positioning of the client's head and jaw manipulation can often provide adequate access for oral care without the need for an oral airway.