A nurse is caring for a client with Parkinson’s disease who has difficulty using utensils during meals. Which interdisciplinary team member should the nurse recommend for a referral?

Choice A rationale

A physical therapist focuses on improving a client’s movement, mobility, and function, and relieving pain. They may not specialize in helping clients with difficulties using utensils during meals.

Choice B rationale

A recreational therapist uses a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings to help maintain or improve a patient’s physical, social, and emotional well-being. However, they may not be the best fit for a client having difficulty using utensils during meals.

Choice C rationale

An occupational therapist specializes in helping people regain, develop, and build skills that are important for independent functioning, health, and well-being. They can provide strategies and make recommendations for adaptive equipment, such as specially designed utensils, to

help the client with Parkinson’s disease eat more independently. Therefore, referring the client to an occupational therapist would be the most beneficial.

Choice D rationale

A speech therapist specializes in the evaluation and treatment of communication disorders and swallowing disorders. While they could assist if the client had difficulties with swallowing, they may not be the best fit for a client having difficulty using utensils during meals.

A.Changing the dressing on the tracheostomy site is an important part of tracheostomy care, but it is not the first action that should be taken.

B.Suctioning the tracheostomy tube should only be performed if there are signs of airway obstruction (e.g., increased secretions, decreased oxygenation, or adventitious breath sounds). Suctioning too frequently or unnecessarily can cause mucosal damage and hypoxia.

C. Auscultating the lungs helps the nurse determine if there is increased secretions, diminished breath sounds, or other airway concerns that may require suctioning. This ensures that care is performed appropriately based on the client’s needs.

D.Cleaning the inner cannula is a necessary part of tracheostomy care, but it should bedone after assessing the airway and performing suctioning if needed.