A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic respiratory acidosis due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect with this client?

Choice A Reason:

Flying itself is not typically considered a factor that worsens MS manifestations. However, factors related to flying, such as stress, fatigue, changes in routine, and potential exposure to infections, may contribute to symptom exacerbation in some individuals with MS.

Choice B Reason:

Sunbathing is appropriate. Exposure to excessive heat, such as sunbathing or prolonged exposure to hot weather, can lead to temporary worsening of MS symptoms, a phenomenon known as Uhthoff's phenomenon. Increased body temperature can temporarily impair nerve conduction in individuals with MS, resulting in exacerbation of symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, sensory disturbances, and cognitive impairment.

Choice C Reason:

Working in an office is inappropriate. Working in an office environment is not inherently associated with exacerbation of MS manifestations. However, factors such as stress, fatigue, poor ergonomic conditions, and limited mobility during prolonged periods of sitting may contribute to symptom exacerbation in some individuals with MS.

Choice D Reason:

High altitude travel is inappropriate. High altitude travel can exacerbate MS symptoms due to the decreased oxygen levels and potential changes in barometric pressure at high altitudes. Hypoxia (low oxygen levels) at high altitudes may exacerbate fatigue, weakness, and cognitive impairment in individuals with MS. Changes in barometric pressure can also trigger or worsen symptoms such as headaches, sensory disturbances, and balance problems in some individuals with MS.

Choice A Reason:

Nutritional therapy is not appropriate. While nutritional therapy may be involved in assessing the client's overall nutritional status and dietary needs, it may not specifically address the swallowing difficulty associated with Parkinson's disease.

Choice B Reason:

Speech therapy is appropriate. Speech therapy, also known as speech-language pathology, plays a crucial role in assessing and managing dysphagia. Speech therapists can evaluate the client's swallowing function and provide interventions to improve swallowing safety and efficiency.

Choice C Reason:

Occupational therapy is incorrect. Occupational therapy focuses on helping individuals engage in meaningful activities of daily living. While occupational therapists may play a role in dysphagia management, speech therapy is typically the primary discipline involved in addressing swallowing difficulties.

Choice D Reason:

Respiratory therapy: Respiratory therapy primarily focuses on evaluating and managing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and ventilator support. While dysphagia can sometimes lead to aspiration pneumonia and respiratory complications, respiratory therapists are not typically involved in the assessment and management of dysphagia itself.