Functional Status
Functional Status ( 5 Questions)
A nurse is planning interventions to improve the functional status of an older adult client who has arthritis and lives alone. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?
(Select all that apply.).
This is correct because joining a support group for people with arthritis can help the client cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of the chronic condition, as well as provide peer education and resources.
This is correct because teaching the client how to use a walker and a shower chair can improve the client’s mobility, balance, and independence in performing activities of daily living (ADLs), as well as prevent falls and injuries.
This is wrong because limiting fluid intake to prevent edema is not a recommended intervention for arthritis, as it can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney problems. The client should be encouraged to drink adequate fluids to maintain hydration and joint lubrication.
This is correct because referring the client to a home health aide for assistance with ADLs can reduce the client’s burden and stress, as well as promote self-care and hygiene.
This is wrong because prescribing a low-dose aspirin regimen for pain relief is not within the scope of nursing practice, as it requires a physician’s order.
The correct answer is A, B, and D.
These interventions are aimed at improving the functional status of an older adult client who has arthritis and lives alone by providing social support, enhancing mobility and safety, and facilitating self-care.
• Choice A is correct because joining a support group for people with arthritis can help the client cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of the chronic condition, as well as provide peer education and resources.
• Choice B is correct because teaching the client how to use a walker and a shower chair can improve the client’s mobility, balance, and independence in performing activities of daily living (ADLs), as well as prevent falls and injuries.
• Choice D is correct because referring the client to a home health aide for assistance with ADLs can reduce the client’s burden and stress, as well as promote self-care and hygiene.
• Choice C is wrong because limiting fluid intake to prevent edema is not a recommended intervention for arthritis, as it can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney problems. The client should be encouraged to drink adequate fluids to maintain hydration and joint lubrication.
• Choice E is wrong because prescribing a low-dose aspirin regimen for pain relief is not within the scope of nursing practice, as it requires a physician’s order.
Moreover, aspirin may not be the most appropriate analgesic for arthritis, as it can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, allergic reactions, and interactions with other medications. The nurse should assess the client’s pain level and administer prescribed pain medications as needed.
Normal ranges for fluid intake are about 2 to 3 liters per day for adults, depending on age, weight, activity level, and climate.
Normal ranges for pain level are subjective, but generally a score of 0 to 3 on a 0 to 10 scale indicates mild pain, 4 to 6 indicates moderate pain, and 7 to 10 indicates severe pain.