A nurse is caring for a client who has dysphagia. When assisting the client during breakfast, which of the following actions by the client indicates the nurse should intervene?

A. Social worker:

While social workers play a crucial role in addressing various aspects of a patient's well-being, such as psychosocial needs and support systems, they may not be the primary healthcare team member to address the specific issue of a client with severe rheumatoid arthritis being unable to feed herself.

B. Physician assistant:

Physician assistants are medical professionals who work under the supervision of a physician. While they contribute to the overall care of the patient, they may not be the primary specialist for addressing the functional limitations and specific needs associated with severe rheumatoid arthritis.

C. Physical therapist:

Physical therapists primarily focus on physical rehabilitation, movement, and mobility. While they may be involved in the overall care plan for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis, the specific issue of hand function and activities of daily living, such as feeding, is more directly addressed by occupational therapists.

D. Occupational therapist:

The correct choice. Occupational therapists specialize in helping individuals regain or improve their ability to perform daily activities, such as feeding, dressing, and grooming. In the case of severe rheumatoid arthritis affecting the hands, an occupational therapist can work with the client to develop strategies, adaptive equipment, and exercises to enhance hand function and promote independence in activities of daily living.

A. Gown:

• After removing gloves, the gown should be taken off. The gown is considered the second most contaminated item. It is important to avoid contact with the outer surface of the gown while removing it.

B. Gloves:

• Gloves should be removed first because they are the most likely part of the PPE to be contaminated. Care should be taken to avoid touching the outside of the gloves, and they should be disposed of properly.

C. Mask:

• The mask is removed next. Care should be taken to handle the mask by the ties or ear loops without touching the front surface. Removing the mask last helps protect the nurse from potential respiratory droplets on the mask.

D. Eyewear/Face Shield:

• Eyewear or face shield is removed last. Similar to the other components, it should be handled carefully to prevent self-contamination. This step helps protect the eyes and face from any potential splashes or airborne particles.