A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has dysphagia and left-sided weakness following a stroke. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Rub the client’s feet briskly for several minutes.

Rubbing the feet briskly may not be appropriate for a client with vascular occlusion. Vigorous rubbing could potentially cause damage to already compromised blood vessels, and the increased friction may not be well-tolerated.

B. Obtain a pair of slipper socks for the client.

Providing slipper socks is a non-invasive and appropriate measure to help keep the client's feet warm. Slipper socks can offer comfort without the need for vigorous interventions or potential harm. They provide insulation and can be easily applied.

C. Increase the client’s oral fluid intake.

While staying well-hydrated is generally important for overall health, increasing oral fluid intake may not directly address the specific issue of cold feet associated with vascular occlusion. It is essential to address the underlying circulatory issue causing the symptom.

D. Place a moist heating pad under the client’s feet.

Applying heat, especially in the form of a moist heating pad, may not be recommended for a client with vascular occlusion. Heat can dilate blood vessels and potentially exacerbate the issue by increasing blood flow to the compromised extremity. It's important to avoid interventions that could worsen the vascular compromise.

A. Discuss a referral to home health and hospice care with the client and family.

This is the correct answer. Discussing a referral to home health and hospice care addresses the client's expressed desire to go home and provides the necessary support and care for both the client and the family during this challenging time.

B. Contact the social worker to assist with nursing home placement.

This option may not align with the client's wish to go home. Nursing home placement may not be the preferred choice, especially when the client wants to spend their final days in a home setting.

C. Talk with the provider about extending the client’s hospital stay.

Prolonging the hospital stay may not meet the client's expressed wish to go home and may not provide the same level of comfort and support as home health and hospice care.

D. Instruct the family about meeting the client’s palliative care needs at home.

While providing information about meeting palliative care needs at home is important, it is more comprehensive to involve home health and hospice services, which can provide skilled care, emotional support, and assistance to the family in managing the client's care needs at home.