A nurse in a long-term care facility is managing the care of an older adult client who has difficulty swallowing and occasional choking during meals. The nurse should initiate a referral to which of the following members of the interprofessional care team?
Speech-language pathologist
Social worker
Respiratory therapist
Occupational therapist
The Correct Answer is A
A. Speech-language pathologist: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) specialize in evaluating and treating swallowing disorders (dysphagia). They can assess the client’s swallowing ability, recommend appropriate diet modifications, and provide strategies to reduce choking risk.
B. Social worker: Social workers provide support for psychosocial needs, discharge planning, and community resources, but they do not assess or manage swallowing difficulties. Referral to a social worker may be appropriate for broader care needs but not for dysphagia.
C. Respiratory therapist: Respiratory therapists focus on airway management, ventilation, and pulmonary function. While they can assist if aspiration leads to respiratory complications, they do not primarily assess swallowing function.
D. Occupational therapist: Occupational therapists help clients with activities of daily living and adaptive equipment. Although they may assist with feeding techniques or positioning, they are not specialized in assessing or treating swallowing disorders.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Request an interpreter of a different sex from the client: The interpreter’s sex should ideally match the client’s preference for comfort and privacy, but this is not the first action. The priority is understanding facility policy and proper use of interpreters.
B. Request a family member or friend to interpret information for the client: Using family or friends can lead to miscommunication, breaches of confidentiality, or bias. Professional interpreters are preferred to ensure accurate and complete information.
C. Direct attention toward the interpreter when speaking to the client: When using an interpreter, the nurse should maintain eye contact and direct communication to the client, not the interpreter, to foster rapport and respect.
D. Review the facility policy about the use of an interpreter: Reviewing policy ensures that the nurse follows legal, ethical, and professional guidelines for language access services. This is the appropriate first action before arranging or using an interpreter.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I don't think you understand the risks to your health.": This response is dismissive of the client’s autonomy and implies the nurse is questioning the client’s decision-making ability. It can create a defensive reaction rather than supporting informed consent.
B. "You should talk with your family about it first.": While family support can be helpful, the decision for surgery ultimately rests with the client. Suggesting family involvement at this point could undermine the client’s right to make an independent healthcare decision.
C. "I will notify your provider regarding this decision.": This response respects the client’s autonomy and ensures the healthcare team is promptly informed. It also facilitates further discussion between the provider and client about the decision, ensuring it is fully informed.
D. "Let me remind you of the benefits of the surgery.": While reviewing benefits can be part of informed consent, doing so after the client has expressed a clear decision not to proceed may be perceived as coercive rather than supportive.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
