While working in a multidisciplinary primary care clinic, a practical nurse reviews the care plans for four different clients. Which nursing action correctly promotes health and prevents disease?
- Withholding a prescribed live-attenuated influenza vaccine from a client who is currently pregnant.Answer
- BInstructing the parents of a 9-month-old infant that the inability to stack six blocks indicates a cognitive delay.
- CReassuring a family member that sudden-onset confusion in a 78-year-old client is an expected physiological change of aging.
- DSubstituting a client's culturally preferred vegetarian meal with a beef entree to quickly increase their protein intake.
Answer
The correct action is to withhold the live-attenuated influenza vaccine from a pregnant client.
Live-attenuated vaccines, such as the intranasal influenza vaccine, contain a weakened form of the live virus. They are strictly contraindicated during pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of transmitting the infection to the developing fetus. Withholding this vaccine prevents potential fetal harm, which demonstrates excellent disease prevention and safe nursing practice.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Health promotion and disease prevention across the lifespan