A nurse is teaching a client who can only bear weight on one leg how to ambulate using crutches. Which of the following crutch gaits should the nurse plan to instruct the client to use?

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. "It's nice having other people cook for me.":

This statement suggests adaptation to the new situational role. The client expresses a positive view of receiving help and support in daily activities, indicating a level of acceptance and adjustment to the changed living situation.

B. "I've never been the kind of person to ask others for help.":

This statement suggests a reluctance to seek help, and it may indicate a struggle with the new situational role. Adaptation often involves a willingness to accept assistance and support from others when needed.

C. "I'm looking forward to being able to be independent again.":

This statement indicates a positive attitude toward regaining independence, but it may not necessarily indicate full adaptation to the new situational role. The client is expressing a future orientation, and the actual adaptation will be evident when independence is achieved.

D. "I really don't know what I'm supposed to do all day.":

This statement suggests confusion or uncertainty about the daily routine, which may indicate a lack of adjustment to the new living situation. Adaptation involves a sense of understanding and comfort with one's roles and activities.