The nurse is preparing the client for discharge.

Exhibits

Which of the following statements indicate the client understands the discharge teaching?

Select the 3 client statements that indicate an understanding of the teaching.

A. Prepare the client for a chest x-ray to verify catheter placement. A chest x-ray is required after central venous catheter insertion to confirm proper placement before initiating total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Incorrect placement can lead to complications such as pneumothorax, arterial puncture, or catheter malposition, making verification essential for safe administration.
B. Use clean technique when changing the catheter dressing. Central venous catheter dressings require sterile technique, not clean technique, to prevent bloodstream infections. Proper infection control measures, including hand hygiene, chlorhexidine skin antisepsis, and sterile gloves, help minimize the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections.
C. Verify the amount of TPN solution the client is receiving every 4 hr. TPN is typically monitored continuously, with infusion rates checked at least hourly to ensure proper administration. Regular assessments of fluid balance, glucose levels, and electrolyte status are also necessary to prevent complications such as hyperglycemia or fluid overload.
D. Place the client in Sims' position for catheter insertion. The preferred position for central venous catheter insertion is Trendelenburg or supine, which helps dilate the veins and reduces the risk of air embolism. Sims’ position (lying on the left side with the right knee flexed) is not appropriate for this procedure.

A. Postoperative ambulation is important for recovery and preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis, but it is not the most critical focus in the immediate preoperative period for a client undergoing a total laryngectomy.
B. Stoma site cleaning is the priority for the nurse to reinforce. After a total laryngectomy, the client will have a permanent stoma (opening) in the neck for breathing. Proper care and cleaning of the stoma site are essential to prevent infection, maintain airway patency, and ensure the client can manage their new method of breathing effectively.
C. Pain management is an important aspect of postoperative care, but it is secondary to ensuring that the client understands how to care for their stoma. Addressing pain is essential for comfort, but it does not take precedence over the immediate care required for the stoma.
D. Coughing and deep breathing are important for maintaining lung function and preventing complications such as pneumonia after surgery, but they are not the most critical teaching point for a client who will have a stoma after a total laryngectomy. The priority should be on the specific care of the stoma to ensure safety and effective breathing postoperatively.