A nurse is flushing a client's intermittent infusion device. The client states, "Why do you have to do that if you are not giving me medicine?" Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Rationale: A. "This clears blood from the tubing and the catheter.": Flushing an intermittent infusion device prevents blood from clotting within the catheter and tubing, maintaining patency for future medication administration. B. "This helps to keep you hydrated.": Flushing the device does not significantly contribute to the client’s hydration status, as only small volumes of fluid are used. C. "This prevents leakage of fluid and medication.": Flushing does not primarily prevent leakage; its main purpose is to maintain catheter patency rather than seal the device. D. "This makes sure it stays sterile.": While flushing uses aseptic technique, the primary reason for flushing is to prevent occlusion, not to ensure sterility of the catheter.