A nurse is caring for a client who has severe rheumatoid arthritis in her hands and is unable to feed herself. For which of the following health care team members should the nurse request a referral from the provider?

A. Ask the family if they wish to assist in washing the client's body:

This is an appropriate action. Providing an opportunity for the family to participate in postmortem care can be a culturally sensitive and therapeutic approach. It allows the family to be involved in a meaningful way and may contribute to the grieving process.

B. Turn overhead lights to a bright setting:

This is incorrect. The environment for postmortem care should be handled with respect and consideration for the family. Turning the lights to a bright setting may create an uncomfortable or clinical atmosphere. A calm and serene environment is more appropriate for this sensitive task.

C. Leave the client's eyes open until the family views the body:

This is incorrect. It is customary to gently close the deceased person's eyes as part of postmortem care. Leaving the eyes open may be distressing for the family and does not contribute to creating a peaceful appearance.

D. Remove the client's dentures for their family to keep:

This is incorrect. Dentures are typically returned to the family rather than kept by the family. The nurse should handle the removal of any personal items with sensitivity and respect, returning them to the family as appropriate.

A. Administer the client's medications one at a time:

This is the correct action. Administering medications one at a time allows the nurse to monitor the client's ability to swallow each medication safely. It minimizes the risk of aspiration and ensures that each medication is swallowed effectively.

B. Encourage the client to use a straw to take the medications:

Using a straw may not be recommended for clients with dysphagia, as it can alter the normal swallowing process and increase the risk of aspiration. The focus should be on safe administration of medications without compromising the client's ability to swallow.

C. Give the client's medications between meals:

The timing of medication administration is important, but the priority is the safe administration of medications, especially for clients with dysphagia. Administering medications between meals may not directly address the safety concerns related to swallowing.

D. Assist the client into semi-Fowler's position:

While positioning is important, especially for clients with dysphagia, the administration of medications one at a time (Option A) takes precedence in ensuring the safety of the client's swallowing. Semi-Fowler's position may be beneficial, but it is not the primary action related to medication administration.