A nurse is teaching a client how to self-administer heparin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Social worker:

While social workers play a crucial role in addressing various aspects of a patient's well-being, such as psychosocial needs and support systems, they may not be the primary healthcare team member to address the specific issue of a client with severe rheumatoid arthritis being unable to feed herself.

B. Physician assistant:

Physician assistants are medical professionals who work under the supervision of a physician. While they contribute to the overall care of the patient, they may not be the primary specialist for addressing the functional limitations and specific needs associated with severe rheumatoid arthritis.

C. Physical therapist:

Physical therapists primarily focus on physical rehabilitation, movement, and mobility. While they may be involved in the overall care plan for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis, the specific issue of hand function and activities of daily living, such as feeding, is more directly addressed by occupational therapists.

D. Occupational therapist:

The correct choice. Occupational therapists specialize in helping individuals regain or improve their ability to perform daily activities, such as feeding, dressing, and grooming. In the case of severe rheumatoid arthritis affecting the hands, an occupational therapist can work with the client to develop strategies, adaptive equipment, and exercises to enhance hand function and promote independence in activities of daily living.

A. "You shouldn't worry about the future so you can concentrate on getting well.":

This response dismisses the client's concerns and may make them feel invalidated. It implies that their worry is not justified and may hinder open communication about their feelings.

B. "If you work hard on your physical therapy, you won't need to worry.":

While encouragement and motivation are essential, this response may come across as minimizing the client's emotional concerns. It focuses solely on the physical aspect of recovery and does not address the broader emotional and psychological aspects of the client's worry about the future.

C. "You're concerned about what will happen when you leave the hospital?":

This response reflects active listening and empathy, acknowledging the client's expressed concern and inviting further discussion. It allows the client to express their feelings and concerns about the future, fostering a therapeutic nurse-client relationship.

D. "Why are you concerned even though everyone is here to help you?":

This response might be perceived as judgmental or dismissive of the client's feelings. It could make the client feel defensive and hesitant to share their concerns. It does not encourage open communication or exploration of the client's emotions.