The nurse is concerned that a client with bowel and bladder ...

[dbose]

The nurse is concerned that a client with bowel and bladder dysfunction is at risk for developing an infection. Which actions should the nurse take to help reduce this client's risk for developing an infection?
 
  Select all that apply.
  A) Turn and reposition the client every 2 hours.
  B) Monitor intake and output.
  C) Provide hygienic care after episodes of incontinence.
  D) Use standard precautions when handling linen after episodes of incontinence.
  E) Cover wounds with antibiotic ointment and sterile gauze.

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a client who is hospitalized on a medical unit for a systemic infection. The client asks the nurse which defenses the body has against infection.
 
  Which physiological barriers that protect the body against microorganisms will the nurse include in the response to the client?
  Select all that apply.
  A) Alcoholic beverages
  B) Adequate urinary output
  C) Intact skin
  D) Occasional smoking
  E) A surgical incision

[Jayson]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: B, C, D

Turning and repositioning is an intervention to maintain tissue integrity. Monitoring for dehydration will help reduce the risk of developing an infection because of bowel and bladder dysfunction. Providing hygienic care after episodes of bowel or bladder incontinence will ensure that the skin remains intact, reducing the risk of infection. Using proper biohazard precautions after episodes of incontinence will reduce the risk of transmitting an infection. Covering wounds with antibiotic ointment and sterile gauze is an intervention to maintain tissue integrity.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: B, C

Physiological barriers that protect the body against microorganisms include adequate urinary output and intact skin. The act of voiding flushes organisms that might try to enter the body through the urinary meatus. Intact skin is also a physiological barrier that helps defend the body against microorganisms. The consumption of alcoholic beverages has been known to increase the risk for infection. Occasional smoking does not defend the body from microorganisms; it destroys the cilia in the nose that helps to filter organisms. A surgical incision can both allow microorganisms to enter the body.