Which client is expected to be more susceptible to infection and needs protective precautions?

The client receiving chemotherapy for cancer is expected to be more susceptible to infection and requires protective precautions because chemotherapy often leads to immunosuppression. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, which includes not only cancer cells but also healthy cells in the bone marrow that produce white blood cells, vital components of the immune system. As a result, these patients may experience neutropenia (a decreased level of neutrophils), significantly reducing their ability to fight off infections.

Protective precautions are essential to safeguard individuals undergoing chemotherapy, as they are at a higher risk of infections due to their compromised immune system. These precautions can include isolation measures to minimize exposure to pathogens and thorough hand hygiene practices among healthcare providers and visitors.

In contrast, clients on metformin experiencing nausea may have gastrointestinal issues but are not necessarily at heightened infection risk. The client with COPD coughing yellow sputum is likely dealing with a respiratory infection, but such conditions do not inherently indicate an increased risk for infection due to immunosuppression. Lastly, the client with heart failure on metoprolol has a chronic condition but is not immune-compromised in the way that chemotherapy patients are.