A nurse is caring for a client

Exhibits

The nurse is reviewing the client's medical record. Which of the following findings places the client at risk for heart disease? (Select all that apply.)

C. Endotracheal suctioning is crucial for maintaining a patent airway in clients with an endotracheal tube who may have secretions obstructing their airway. This procedure directly impacts the client's ability to breathe and is often performed on an urgent basis to prevent respiratory distress or failure.
A. Enteral feeding is important for providing nutrition to clients who cannot eat by mouth, but it is not immediately life-threatening. This procedure can usually be scheduled and does not require urgent attention compared to issues involving airway or breathing.

B. Urinary catheter care is necessary to prevent infections and ensure proper urinary drainage, but it is not typically an urgent procedure unless there is a blockage or another complication that immediately impacts the client’s health.
D. Wound irrigation is important for preventing infection and promoting healing, but it is not as immediately critical as ensuring a patent airway. It can usually be performed after more urgent needs are addressed.

A. speech-language pathologist specializes in assessing and treating communication and swallowing disorders. In this case, the client's coughing when swallowing indicates a potential swallowing disorder (dysphagia), which falls within the scope of practice of a speech-language pathologist. They can assess the client's swallowing function, provide appropriate interventions, and work with the client to improve swallowing safety and efficiency.
B. Occupational therapists may be involved in stroke rehabilitation to address activities of daily living (ADLs) but they typically do not specialize in swallowing disorders. Their focus is more on helping individuals regain independence in activities such as dressing, grooming, and cooking.
C. Physical therapists primarily focus on improving mobility, strength, balance, and coordination. While they may be involved in stroke rehabilitation to address physical impairments such as weakness or paralysis, they are not typically the primary referral for managing swallowing disorders.
D. Social workers play a crucial role in addressing the psychosocial and practical needs of clients and their families, such as accessing community resources, counseling, and support. While they may be involved in the overall care of a client who has had a stroke, they do not have the expertise to address swallowing disorders. Therefore, they are not the most appropriate referral in this case.