The nurse is teaching a client with cancer about skin care for the portal site receiving external beam radiation. Which client action regarding skin care indicates a need for further teaching?

Choice A reason: Obtaining a soft diet for the client is not the best initial nursing action for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. A soft diet can help reduce the irritation and discomfort of the oral mucosa, but it does not address the underlying cause of the inflammation and infection. The nurse should first assess the client's oral hygiene and provide appropriate interventions to prevent further complications.

Choice B reason: Encouraging frequent mouth care is the best initial nursing action for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. Frequent mouth care can help prevent or reduce the severity of mucositis by removing plaque, bacteria, and debris from the oral cavity, and by moisturizing and soothing the oral tissues. The nurse should instruct the client to use a soft toothbrush, a mild toothpaste, and a saline or bicarbonate rinse at least four times a day, and to avoid alcohol, tobacco, spicy, acidic, or hot foods and beverages.

Choice C reason: Cleansing the tongue and mouth with swabs is not the best initial nursing action for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. Swabs can be abrasive and damaging to the oral mucosa, especially if they are dry or contain alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Swabs can also increase the risk of bleeding, infection, and ulceration of the oral tissues. The nurse should use a soft toothbrush or a gentle sponge to clean the tongue and mouth.

Choice D reason: Administering a topical analgesic per protocol is not the best initial nursing action for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. A topical analgesic can provide temporary relief of pain and discomfort, but it does not address the underlying cause of the inflammation and infection. The nurse should first assess the client's oral hygiene and provide appropriate interventions to prevent further complications. The nurse should also monitor the client's response to the analgesic and report any adverse effects or inadequate pain control.

Choice A reason: Place the client in a room near the elevator: This does **not** promote client safety, because it exposes the client to more noise and disturbance, which can increase stress and blood pressure. A quiet and calm environment is preferable for stroke clients.

Choice B reason: Complete a swallow study before giving anything by mouth: This **promotes** client safety, because it assesses the client's ability to swallow and prevent aspiration. Stroke clients may have impaired swallowing due to facial weakness or sensory loss.

Choice C reason: Provide a call button kept within reach: This **promotes** client safety, because it allows the client to communicate their needs and request assistance when needed. Stroke clients may have limited mobility or vision, which can increase their risk of falls or injuries.

Choice D reason: Initiate use of the bed alarm: This **promotes** client safety, because it alerts the staff if the client tries to get out of bed without assistance. Stroke clients may have impaired judgment or balance, which can lead to falls or accidents.

Choice E reason: Place client belongings out of reach: This does **not** promote client safety, because it makes the client feel frustrated and helpless. Stroke clients may have difficulty reaching for their belongings due to hemiparesis or hemiplegia, which can affect their self-care and independence. The nurse should place the client's belongings within reach on their unaffected side and encourage them to use them as much as possible.

Choice F reason: Instruct the client to call before getting up: This **promotes** client safety, because it ensures that the client has adequate support and supervision when getting up. Stroke clients may have orthostatic hypotension, which can cause dizziness or fainting when changing positions. The nurse should assist the client to get up slowly and monitor their vital signs.