A charge nurse is making a room assignment for a client who has scabies. In which of the following rooms should the nurse place the client?
A negative-pressure isolation room.
A private room.
A semi-private room with a client who has pediculosis capitis.
A positive-pressure isolation room.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A: A Negative-Pressure Isolation Room
A negative-pressure isolation room is typically used for patients with airborne infections, such as tuberculosis, to prevent the spread of infectious particles through the air. Scabies, however, is spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated items, not through the air. Therefore, a negative-pressure room is not necessary for a client with scabies.
Choice B: A Private Room
Placing the client in a private room is the appropriate action. This helps to prevent the spread of scabies to other patients and staff. Scabies is highly contagious, and isolating the affected individual minimizes the risk of transmission. The client should remain in the private room until the treatment regimen is complete and they are no longer contagious.
Choice C: A Semi-Private Room with a Client Who Has Pediculosis Capitis
A semi-private room with a client who has pediculosis capitis (head lice) is not appropriate. While both conditions involve parasites, they are different and require separate management and treatment protocols. Placing two clients with different contagious conditions in the same room increases the risk of cross-contamination and complicates infection control measures.
Choice D: A Positive-Pressure Isolation Room
A positive-pressure isolation room is used to protect immunocompromised patients from external contaminants by ensuring that air flows out of the room rather than in. This type of room is not suitable for a client with scabies, as it does not address the mode of transmission for this condition.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Leave the pad in place for at least 40 minutes
Leaving the aquathermia pad in place for at least 40 minutes is not recommended. The typical duration for applying an aquathermia pad is 20 to 40 minutes1. Prolonged exposure beyond this time can lead to complications such as burns or vasoconstriction, where blood vessels constrict instead of dilate, potentially increasing blood pressure and causing discomfort.
Choice B: Set the pad’s temperature to 42.2°C (108°F)
Setting the pad’s temperature to 42.2°C (108°F) is too high. The recommended temperature range for an aquathermia pad is generally between 40.5°C to 43°C (105°F to 109.4°F)3. Temperatures above this range can increase the risk of burns and skin damage. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and institutional protocols to ensure safe and effective use of the pad.
Choice C: Use safety pins to keep the pad in place
Using safety pins to keep the pad in place is not safe. Safety pins can puncture the pad, causing leaks and potentially leading to electrical hazards. Instead, the pad should be secured with tape or a cloth cover to ensure it stays in place without causing damage.
Choice D: Stop the treatment if the client’s skin becomes red
Stopping the treatment if the client’s skin becomes red is the correct action. Redness of the skin can indicate the beginning of a burn or other skin damage. It is essential to monitor the client’s skin condition frequently during the application of heat therapy and to discontinue the treatment immediately if any signs of adverse reactions, such as redness or discomfort, are observed.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Plan of care changes for the upcoming shift
Plan of care changes for the upcoming shift are typically included in the “Recommendation” segment of SBAR. This section focuses on what actions need to be taken next, including any changes in the care plan that the oncoming nurse should be aware of. It ensures that the incoming nurse knows what to expect and what specific tasks or interventions are required during their shift.
Choice B: Intracranial pressure readings
Intracranial pressure (ICP) readings are crucial for monitoring a client with a traumatic brain injury. However, these readings are more appropriately included in the “Assessment” segment of SBAR. The assessment section provides an analysis of the client’s current condition, including vital signs, lab results, and other critical data. This information helps the oncoming nurse understand the client’s current status and any immediate concerns.
Choice C: Glasgow results
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) results are used to assess the level of consciousness in clients with brain injuries. These results should also be included in the “Assessment” segment of SBAR. The GCS score provides valuable information about the client’s neurological status and helps guide clinical decisions. Including this information in the assessment ensures that the oncoming nurse has a clear understanding of the client’s current condition.
Choice D: Code status
Code status is a critical piece of information that should be included in the “Background” segment of SBAR. The background section provides relevant clinical history and context for the current situation. Knowing the client’s code status (e.g., full code, do not resuscitate) is essential for making informed decisions about their care, especially in emergency situations. Including this information in the background ensures that the oncoming nurse is aware of the client’s preferences and legal directives.