The practical nurse (PN) is providing instructions to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) preparing to give a total bed bath to an immobile client who has a continuous feeding via gastrostomy tube (GT).

Which instruction is most important for the PN to emphasize?

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should inform the client that they will need periodic TB skin tests to monitor for any reactivation of the infection. This is important for assessing the client's response to treatment and ensuring early detection of any recurrence.

Choice B rationale:

Medications for tuberculosis can cause various side effects, but turning urine a blue-green color is not a common side effect associated with these medications. Providing accurate information about potential side effects is important for informed decision-making, but this statement is not accurate.

Choice C rationale:

The correct response is to inform the client that they are no longer contagious when they have negative sputum cultures. This is an important point to emphasize as it ensures that the client understands when it is safe to be around others without the risk of transmitting the infection.

Choice D rationale:

Telling the client that they will take medication for the rest of their life is incorrect and not appropriate for active pulmonary tuberculosis. Tuberculosis treatment typically involves a combination of medications taken for a specified duration, usually several months, until the infection is effectively treated.

Choice A rationale:

Placing a pulse oximeter on the client's finger to assess oxygen saturation is important, but in this scenario, establishing a patent airway takes priority. The client's cyanosis and shallow respirations indicate a severe respiratory distress, and the nurse should first ensure the client's ability to breathe before assessing oxygen levels.

Choice B rationale:

Establishing a patent airway is the priority action because the client's shallow respirations and cyanosis indicate a compromised airway and inadequate oxygenation. Ensuring a clear airway is crucial for the client's survival.

Choice C rationale:

Checking the client's pulse rate is an important assessment but should not take precedence over addressing the airway and breathing issues. The client's respiratory distress is a more immediate concern.

Choice D rationale:

Administering oxygen is an appropriate intervention, but it should not be done before ensuring a patent airway. The nurse must prioritize actions to address the most critical issue first.