Introduction to Care of Patients with Chronic Illnesses
Introduction to Care of Patients with Chronic Illnesses ( 4 Questions)
A client with multiple sclerosis (MS) is experiencing fatigue and muscle weakness. Which strategy would be most helpful for the client to conserve energy and prevent exacerbation of symptoms?
This is not a helpful strategy, as overexertion of the affected muscles can aggravate fatigue and weakness. The client should perform exercises that are moderate, low-impact, and well-tolerated, such as stretching, yoga, or swimming.
The client with MS should plan activities that require more energy for the morning, when they are likely to have more strength and endurance. Fatigue and muscle weakness tend to worsen as the day progresses, especially in warm or humid weather. The client should also prioritize and pace their activities, and take rest breaks as needed.
This is not a helpful strategy, as frequent naps can disrupt the sleep cycle and interfere with nighttime sleep quality. The client should aim for seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep at night, and limit naps to 20 to 30 minutes in the afternoon if needed.
This is not a helpful strategy, as excessive fluid intake can cause bladder problems, such as urgency, frequency, or incontinence, which are common in clients with MS. Caffeine intake can also worsen these symptoms, as well as cause dehydration, insomnia, or anxiety.
The client with MS should plan activities that require more energy for the morning, when they are likely to have more strength and endurance. Fatigue and muscle weakness tend to worsen as the day progresses, especially in warm or humid weather. The client should also prioritize and pace their activities, and take rest breaks as needed.
Incorrect options:
A) Performing exercises that target the affected muscles - This is not a helpful strategy, as overexertion of the affected muscles can aggravate fatigue and weakness. The client should perform exercises that are moderate, low-impact, and well-tolerated, such as stretching, yoga, or swimming.
C) Taking frequent naps throughout the day - This is not a helpful strategy, as frequent naps can disrupt the sleep cycle and interfere with nighttime sleep quality. The client should aim for seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep at night, and limit naps to 20 to 30 minutes in the afternoon if needed.
D) Increasing fluid and caffeine intake - This is not a helpful strategy, as excessive fluid intake can cause bladder problems, such as urgency, frequency, or incontinence, which are common in clients with MS. Caffeine intake can also worsen these symptoms, as well as cause dehydration, insomnia, or anxiety.