What information should the nurse include in the teaching plan for a patient diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Choice A rationale
Huff coughing is a method that forces mucus up your throat by breathing it in, holding it, and actively exhaling. It’s different from a typical cough and more effective in clearing mucus from the lungs. Pursed-lip breathing, which the patient is doing, is not part of the huff coughing technique.
Choice B rationale
Taking several shallow breaths before the next exhalation is not part of the huff coughing technique. The technique involves taking a slow and deep breath until your lungs are about 75% full, holding your breath for two to three seconds, and then exhaling slowly but strongly.
Choice C rationale
Instructing the patient to inhale deeply and then quickly and forcefully exhale 2 to 3 times is the correct method for huff coughing. This technique helps to move mucus from the smaller airways to the larger ones, making it easier to cough up and out.
Choice D rationale
Positioning the patient in the semi-Fowler’s position and applying oxygen is not part of the huff coughing technique. While oxygen therapy can be beneficial for patients with COPD, it does not directly aid in the huff coughing technique.

Choice A rationale
While a white blood cell count can indicate an infection or inflammation in the body, it’s not the most relevant laboratory result to review when a client presents with petechiae and ecchymosis. These symptoms are more commonly associated with platelet disorders or coagulation issues.
Choice B rationale
A platelet count is the most relevant laboratory result to review for a client with petechiae and ecchymosis. These symptoms are often caused by low platelet counts, which can lead to bleeding and bruising. Therefore, reviewing the platelet count can provide valuable information about the client’s condition.
Choice C rationale
A red blood cell count can provide information about the client’s overall health and can indicate conditions like anemia. However, it’s not directly related to the presence of petechiae and ecchymosis.
Choice D rationale
Hemoglobin levels can indicate conditions like anemia, but they’re not directly related to the presence of petechiae and ecchymosis. These symptoms are more commonly associated with platelet disorders or coagulation issues.