A nurse is planning care for a client who has a new prescription for parenteral nutrition (PN) in 20% dextrose and fat emulsions. Which of the following is an appropriate action to include in the plan of care?

A. Occupational therapist:

While occupational therapists play a valuable role in stroke rehabilitation, they typically focus on activities of daily living (ADLs), upper extremity function, and adaptive strategies. In the context of frequent coughing during swallowing, the expertise of an SLP is more directly relevant to address potential dysphagia.

B. Physical therapist:

Physical therapists primarily focus on mobility, strength, and balance. While they may be involved in stroke rehabilitation, the issue of coughing during swallowing is more aligned with the scope of practice of a speech-language pathologist.

C. Speech-language pathologist:

This is the correct answer. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) specializes in assessing and treating communication and swallowing disorders. In this case, the client is experiencing coughing when swallowing, indicating a potential swallowing (dysphagia) issue. The SLP can conduct a thorough evaluation of the client's swallowing function and recommend appropriate interventions, such as swallowing exercises or modified diets, to address the coughing and improve safe swallowing.

D. Social worker:

Social workers provide support for psychosocial and community-related issues. While they are crucial members of the interdisciplinary team, they may not have the specific expertise needed to address the swallowing difficulties experienced by the client after a stroke

A. "I will move your joints to the point of mild pain":

This statement is incorrect. Passive range-of-motion exercises should not cause pain. The goal is to move the joints within their natural range of motion without causing discomfort or harm to the client. If pain occurs, the nurse should stop the movement and assess for any underlying issues.

B. "I will repeat these movements 3 to 5 times":

This is the correct statement. Passive range-of-motion exercises involve moving the client's joints through their range of motion without the client actively participating. Repeating the movements 3 to 5 times helps prevent joint stiffness and maintain flexibility without causing excessive strain or fatigue.

C. "These movements will be performed once per day":

This statement is less optimal. While performing passive range-of-motion exercises once a day may be beneficial, incorporating them into the client's routine more frequently, such as several times a day, can provide additional benefits in preventing joint contractures and maintaining joint function.

D. "I will move your joints quickly":

This statement is incorrect. Passive range-of-motion exercises should be performed slowly and gently. Moving the joints too quickly may cause discomfort or injury. The emphasis is on smooth, controlled movements to promote joint flexibility without causing harm.