A nurse is caring for a client who has impaired speech.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Keeping the feet together when lifting an object is not a proper body mechanics technique. It can lead to instability and an increased risk of injury because the base of support is not wide enough. Therefore, this choice does not indicate an understanding of body mechanics.

Choice B rationale:

Bending at the hip when lifting is also an incorrect body mechanics technique. Proper body mechanics involve bending at the knees and keeping the back straight to reduce the risk of back injuries. Bending at the hips can strain the lower back, making it an incorrect choice.

Choice C rationale:

Twisting the spine when lifting is a harmful practice in body mechanics. Twisting the spine can lead to spinal injuries, especially when lifting heavy objects. Proper body mechanics emphasize keeping the spine aligned and not twisting during lifting. Therefore, this choice does not indicate an understanding of body mechanics.

Choice D rationale:

Standing close to the object being moved is the correct body mechanics technique. This choice demonstrates an understanding of proper body mechanics because it reduces the strain on the back and minimizes the effort required to lift a heavy object. Keeping a wide base of support and using the leg muscles rather than the back muscles are essential principles of proper body mechanics. This is the correct choice. .

Choice A rationale:

Increased sensitivity to touch is not typically an age-related change in older adults. In fact, older adults often experience a decrease in sensitivity due to factors like reduced skin elasticity and changes in nerve function.

Choice C rationale:

Increased peripheral vision is not a common age-related change. Visual changes in older adults usually involve decreased visual acuity, difficulties with night vision, and increased sensitivity to glare.

Choice D rationale:

An increase in the size of pupils is not an expected age-related change. Pupils may become smaller and react more sluggishly to changes in light in older adults, but a consistent increase in pupil size is not a common finding.

Choice B rationale:

An increase in cerumen in the ear canal is a common age-related change. Cerumen, or earwax, can accumulate more in older adults due to changes in the composition of earwax and slower migration of earwax out of the ear canal. It can lead to hearing difficulties and may need management. Moving on to the last question.