A healthcare professional is teaching a new colleague about the correct administration of subcutaneous (subQ) injections. Which instruction should the healthcare professional include?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In teaching the correct administration of subcutaneous (subQ) injections, the healthcare professional should emphasize option C: Pinch the skin before inserting the needle. This instruction is crucial as pinching the skin helps to lift the subcutaneous tissue away from the muscle, ensuring that the medication is delivered into the fatty layer beneath the skin. By pinching the skin, the risk of injecting the medication into the muscle is minimized, which can lead to discomfort and potential complications. Option A is incorrect because subQ injections are typically administered at a 45-degree angle for thinner individuals or a 90-degree angle for those with more adipose tissue. Inserting the needle at a 90-degree angle can lead to injecting the medication into the muscle instead of the subcutaneous layer. Option B is incorrect because aspirating for blood return is not necessary for subQ injections since the subcutaneous tissue has fewer blood vessels compared to the muscle tissue. Aspirating can increase the risk of tissue trauma and discomfort for the patient. Option D is incorrect because massaging the site after administering a subQ injection is not recommended. Massaging can cause discomfort, bruising, or the dispersion of the medication beyond the intended area. In an educational context, understanding the correct technique for subQ injections is essential for nursing students and healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective medication administration. Emphasizing the importance of correct injection angles, skin preparation, and post-injection care is vital for providing quality patient care and minimizing complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In preparing a client for a colonoscopy, the nurse should instruct them to drink clear liquids for 24 hours before the procedure. This is essential to ensure that the colon is adequately cleansed for a clear visualization during the colonoscopy. Clear liquids help to prevent dehydration and provide essential hydration without leaving residue that could obstruct the view. Option B, taking a laxative the morning of the procedure, is incorrect because a laxative alone is not sufficient to adequately clean the colon within a short timeframe. Option C, eating a light meal before the procedure, is incorrect as solid foods can leave residue in the colon, hindering the effectiveness of the examination. Option D, avoiding drinking fluids for 4 hours before the procedure, is incorrect as dehydration can be a risk and clear liquids are necessary for colon cleansing. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind the preparation instructions for a colonoscopy is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their clients. By comprehending the importance of clear liquid intake for colon cleansing, nurses can ensure that the procedure is conducted successfully and accurate results are obtained.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presence of numerous scatter rugs throughout the house poses a significant safety hazard to the client who is ambulating with a quad cane. These rugs increase the risk of tripping and falling, making it the most critical finding that needs immediate attention to prevent potential injuries and ensure the client's safety during ambulation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of nursing practice and infection control, the correct answer is option D) Emptying the urinary catheter drainage bag for a client with Alzheimer's disease. Wearing barrier gloves during this task is essential because it involves contact with bodily fluids, which can potentially harbor pathogens that may be transmitted to the nurse or other individuals if proper precautions are not taken. Option A) Removing the empty food tray from a client with a urinary catheter does not require the use of barrier gloves unless there is a spill or contamination with bodily fluids. Washing and combing the hair of a client with a fractured leg in traction (option B) does not involve direct contact with bodily fluids that necessitate barrier gloves. Administering oral medications to a cooperative client with a wound infection (option C) also does not require barrier gloves unless there is a risk of exposure to contaminated fluids. In the educational context of nursing fundamentals, understanding and adhering to Standard Precautions, including the use of barrier protection like gloves, is crucial to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings. Nurses must always assess the level of risk involved in each care task to determine the appropriate use of personal protective equipment, ensuring the safety of both themselves and their patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a client is on contact precautions due to an infected draining wound, it is important to prevent contact with wound secretions. Therefore, disposing of soiled dressings in securely closed plastic bags helps contain and prevent the spread of infectious material, reducing the risk of transmission to others in the household.