A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has neutropenia. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Mild exercise like gardening is risky for neutropenic clients, as soil exposure increases infection risk from bacteria or fungi. Avoiding crowds is more critical, reducing contact with pathogens in high-risk settings, making gardening an inappropriate recommendation for infection prevention. Choice B reason: Fresh fruits and vegetables may harbor bacteria, posing an infection risk for neutropenic clients. Cooking produce reduces this risk. Avoiding crowds is a priority, as it minimizes exposure to infectious agents, making dietary advice less critical than crowd avoidance. Choice C reason: Avoiding crowds is essential for neutropenic clients, as low white blood cell counts increase infection susceptibility. Crowded areas elevate exposure to pathogens, making this a key teaching point to prevent serious infections, aligning with neutropenia management guidelines. Choice D reason: A HEPA filter mask is not routinely required unless in high-risk environments (e.g., construction zones). Avoiding crowds is more practical and effective for daily infection prevention, as masks are situational, making this less appropriate for general teaching.