What discharge teaching is most important to help the patient who has had a splenectomy prevent infection?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Patients who have had a splenectomy are at increased risk for infections, particularly those caused by encapsulated bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae. To prevent these infections, it is essential for these patients to receive vaccines against these bacteria. Vaccines recommended for patients who have had a splenectomy include the pneumococcal vaccine, meningococcal vaccine, and Hib vaccine. These vaccines help boost the body's immunity and provide protection against potentially life-threatening infections. It is important for healthcare providers to educate patients about the importance of receiving these vaccines to prevent infections post-splenectomy.