A nurse caring for the family of a client who recently died. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason:

"Use a cane when walking to maintain your balance" is the correct statement Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system, leading to various neurological symptoms. Mobility and balance issues are common among individuals with MS, and using a cane can be helpful in providing stability and support while walking. It can also reduce the risk of falls and improve the client's overall safety and confidence when ambulating.

Choice B reason:

"Plan to take a hot bath once a week to reduce stress” is not appropriate statement. Heat sensitivity is a common symptom in individuals with MS, and exposure to heat, such as hot baths or saunas, can exacerbate MS symptoms. It is generally advisable for individuals with MS to avoid excessive heat exposure as it can worsen fatigue and other neurological symptoms.

Choice C reason:

"Engage in a rigorous exercise program to maintain muscle tone" is not appropriate. While exercise is beneficial for individuals with MS, particularly in maintaining muscle strength and flexibility, it is essential to avoid a rigorous or overly strenuous exercise program. High-intensity exercise may lead to increased fatigue and exacerbation of MS symptoms. A personalized exercise plan that considers the individual's specific abilities and limitations is recommended.

Choice D reason

"Place a scatter rug in your bathroom to prevent falling" is not appropriate statement. Placing a scatter rug in the bathroom is not advisable, especially for individuals with mobility and balance issues like those with MS. Scatter rugs can create tripping hazards and increase the risk of falls. It is essential to keep the bathroom floor clear and use non-slip mats to improve safety.

The correct answer is C.

Engage in low-impact aerobic exercises. Low-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can help improve joint mobility, muscle strength, and cardiovascular health in clients with arthritis. They can also reduce pain and inflammation by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the joints. The nurse should advise the client to avoid high-impact exercises, such as running or jumping, that can worsen joint damage and pain. The nurse should also recommend sleeping on a firm mattress that supports the spine and joints, applying heat to relax stiff muscles and joints, and using assistive devices or palms to push off from surfaces to avoid putting extra stress on the fingers.