A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client who will be receiving oxygen therapy at home. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale A. "You should use woolen blankets on your bed.": Woolen or synthetic blankets can generate static electricity, which increases the risk of fire when oxygen is in use. Clients should use cotton or other nonstatic materials to reduce this hazard. B. "You will no longer be able to use an electric razor.": Electric razors are safe for use with home oxygen because they do not produce sparks. There is no need to prohibit their use; in fact, electric razors are recommended over safety razors to prevent cuts. C. "You should purchase a fire extinguisher for your home.": Having a fire extinguisher readily available is an important safety precaution when oxygen is used at home. Oxygen supports combustion, so being prepared for emergencies reduces the risk of serious injury or property damage. D. "Family members who smoke must do so at least 6 feet away from the oxygen tank.": Smoking should be prohibited entirely in areas where oxygen is in use. There is no safe distance for smoking near an oxygen source, and even a six-foot distance does not eliminate the fire risk. Strict no-smoking policies are essential.