What can the nurse teach the client with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) to reduce the risk of infection? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Washing your hands thoroughly is an important measure to reduce the risk of infection. Hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of germs that can cause diseases. Hand washing can remove dirt, bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from the skin and prevent them from entering the body or spreading to others. The nurse should teach the client with AIDS to wash their hands frequently and properly, especially before and after eating, using the bathroom, touching their face, or handling any objects that may be contaminated.

Choice B reason: Avoiding cleaning your toothbrush with bleach is not a measure to reduce the risk of infection. Cleaning your toothbrush with bleach is not a recommended practice, as bleach is a harsh chemical that can damage the toothbrush and irritate the mouth. However, cleaning your toothbrush with bleach does not increase the risk of infection, as bleach can kill most germs that may be present on the toothbrush. The nurse should teach the client with AIDS to rinse their toothbrush with water after each use and replace it every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles are worn or frayed.

Choice C reason: Avoiding raw fruits and vegetables is a measure to reduce the risk of infection. Raw fruits and vegetables may be contaminated with bacteria, parasites, or pesticides that can cause foodborne illnesses. The client with AIDS has a weakened immune system that cannot fight off these infections effectively and may develop serious complications, such as diarrhea, dehydration, or malnutrition. The nurse should teach the client with AIDS to wash, peel, or cook their fruits and vegetables before eating them and to avoid any that are bruised, moldy, or spoiled.

Choice D reason: Avoiding crowds is a measure to reduce the risk of infection. Crowds are places where many people gather and interact, such as public transportation, shopping malls, schools, or workplaces. Crowds increase the exposure to germs that can cause respiratory, gastrointestinal, or skin infections. The client with AIDS has a lowered resistance to these infections and may contract them more easily and severely. The nurse should teach the client with AIDS to avoid crowds as much as possible and to wear a mask, practice social distancing, and use hand sanitizer if they have to be in a crowded place.

Choice E reason: Not sharing toothpaste with family members is a measure to reduce the risk of infection. Sharing toothpaste with family members can transfer saliva, blood, or other body fluids that may contain germs that can cause oral, dental, or systemic infections. The client with AIDS is more susceptible to these infections and may also transmit the HIV virus to their family members through their body fluids. The nurse should teach the client with AIDS to use their own toothpaste and toothbrush and to store them separately from their family members' ones.