The nurse is providing care for a client with a recent transverse colostomy. Which observation requires immediate notification of the primary health care provider?

Choice A reason: This is correct because eating frequent small meals can help the client with IBS to avoid overloading the digestive system and triggering diarrhea. The nurse should advise the client to eat slowly chew well, and avoid foods that are spicy, fatty, or gas-producing.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because increasing the intake of leafy greens and other sources of dietary fiber can worsen diarrhea by increasing stool bulk and motility. The nurse should advise the client to limit or avoid high-fiber foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, during acute flare-ups of IBS. The client can gradually reintroduce fiber when the symptoms subside.
Choice C reason: This is correct because increasing fluids can help the client with IBS to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance caused by diarrhea. The nurse should advise the client to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day and avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, or carbonated beverages that can irritate the bowel or cause gas.
Choice D reason: This is correct because taking prescribed medications on schedule can help the client with IBS to regulate bowel patterns and reduce diarrhea. The nurse should instruct the client on how to use medications, such as antidiarrheals, antispasmodics, or probiotics, as ordered by the provider. The nurse should also monitor the client for any adverse effects or interactions of the medications.

Choice A Reason: This is the correct choice. Washing towels, sheets, and pillowcases is a home care instruction that the nurse will offer to the client, as it prevents reinfection and transmission of bacteria or viruses. The client has conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the conjunctiva or thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye and lines the eyelids. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or irritants.

Choice B Reason: This is an incorrect choice. Using antifungal drops 3 times a day is not a home care instruction that the nurse will offer to the client, as it is not effective for conjunctivitis. Antifungal drops are used for fungal infections of the eye, which are rare and usually occur after trauma or surgery. The client may need antibiotic or antiviral drops, depending on the cause of conjunctivitis.

Choice C Reason: This is an incorrect choice. Scheduling a sexually transmitted infection (STI/STD) exam is not a home care instruction that the nurse will offer to the client, as it is not relevant for conjunctivitis. STIs can affect the eyes, but they usually cause different symptoms, such as redness, pain, or discharge from the urethra or vagina. The client may need to be tested for STIs if they have other risk factors or signs of infection.

Choice D Reason: This is an incorrect choice. Avoiding going outside during daylight hours is not a home care instruction that the nurse will offer to the client, as it is not necessary for conjunctivitis. The client may experience sensitivity to light, but they can wear sunglasses or avoid direct sunlight to protect their eyes. The client should also avoid rubbing or touching their eyes, wear glasses instead of contact lenses, and discard any eye makeup or cosmetics that may be contaminated.