A nurse working on a medical-surgical unit is managing the care of four clients. The nurse should schedule an interdisciplinary conference for which of the following clients?

Choice A Reason:
"I will have a nurse witness the signing of my living will." This statement is incorrect. While having a witness present during the signing of a living will is important for validity in some jurisdictions, the statement alone does not demonstrate an understanding of advance directives. It's essential to ensure that the client comprehends the purpose and content of the document, not just the procedural aspect.
Choice B Reason:
"I can make changes to my living will even after I sign it." This statement is correct. Understanding that living wills can be revised or updated as needed reflects comprehension of the flexibility and control that advance directives provide. It's crucial for clients to know that they can make changes to their directives if their preferences or circumstances change.
Choice C Reason:
"I should choose a family member as my health care proxy." This statement is incorrect. While selecting a family member as a health care proxy is a common choice, it may not necessarily indicate an understanding of advance directives. The key aspect is that the client understands the role of the health care proxy and chooses someone who can make decisions aligned with their wishes.
Choice D Reason:
"I need to have my attorney review my advance directives." This statement is incorrect. While it can be beneficial to have an attorney review advance directives for legal clarity and compliance with state laws, it is not a requirement for their validity. The statement alone does not demonstrate understanding of advance directives.

Choice A Reason:
The client has four new medications is incorrect. While the addition of new medications may require monitoring and adjustment, it does not directly indicate a need for occupational therapy. Medication management is typically addressed by the healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Choice B Reason:
The client has extreme difficulty swallowing is incorrect. This finding suggests dysphagia, which may require intervention from a speech-language pathologist rather than an occupational therapist. Speech-language pathologists specialize in assessing and treating swallowing difficulties.
Choice C Reason:
The client is experiencing dysarthria is incorrect. Dysarthria refers to difficulty in speaking due to weakness or poor coordination of the muscles used for speech. While it may affect communication and daily activities, it is primarily addressed through speech therapy rather than occupational therapy.
Choice D Reason:
The client requires assistance getting dressed is correct. Difficulty with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, and grooming, is within the scope of occupational therapy. Occupational therapists help clients regain independence in activities of daily living through interventions aimed at improving fine motor skills, coordination, and adaptive strategies. Referring the client to an occupational therapist can help address their dressing needs and promote independence in self-care activities.