While changing a postoperative patient’s dressing, the nurse notices purulent drainage at the site.
Before reporting this to the healthcare provider, which of the patient’s lab values should the nurse check?

Choice A rationale

Reducing the infant’s fruit intake for 24 hours is not the best approach in this situation. While certain fruits can cause diarrhea, the parent reports no signs of watery stools. Therefore, this intervention may not address the issue of the red and raw diaper area.

Choice B rationale

Cleaning with soap and water at each diaper change can actually worsen the condition. Soap can dry out the skin and disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, potentially leading to more irritation. It’s generally recommended to use water and a soft cloth, or a gentle non-soap cleanser, to clean the diaper area.

Choice C rationale

Changing the child’s diaper more frequently is the most appropriate intervention. A wet or dirty diaper can irritate the skin, leading to diaper rash. By changing the diaper more often, the skin is kept clean and dry, which can help the rash heal.

Choice D rationale

Applying lotion with each diaper change is not typically recommended for diaper rash. Some lotions can contain fragrances or other ingredients that can further irritate the rash. Instead, a barrier cream or ointment, such as one containing zinc oxide, is often recommended.

Choice A rationale

Using the inhaler only when the patient is really short of breath is not an incorrect use of the inhaler. However, it might indicate that the patient is not managing their COPD effectively, as rescue inhalers like albuterol are meant to be used for quick relief of acute symptoms.

Choice B rationale

Having a hard time inhaling and holding the breath after squeezing the inhaler might suggest that the patient is not using the inhaler correctly. However, the patient’s statement that they “do their best” suggests that they are aware of the correct technique and are trying to follow it.

Choice C rationale

Swallowing after squeezing the inhaler is a clear indication of incorrect use. The medication from the inhaler is meant to be inhaled into the lungs, not swallowed. Swallowing the medication would lead to less of it reaching the lungs, reducing its effectiveness. The wave of nausea the patient experiences could be a side effect of swallowing the medication.

Choice D rationale

Shaking the inhaler several times before starting is actually part of the correct technique for using many types of inhalers.