During discharge preparations, a client who had a unilateral below-the-knee amputation three days ago expresses acute anxiety about returning home. The client states to the registered nurse, "I cannot imagine how I will be able to safely take a shower or get dressed without help." Which intervention demonstrates the most appropriate interprofessional coordination of care?
- Request a consultation with occupational therapy to assess the client's need for adaptive equipment and provide self-care training.Answer
- BInstruct the unlicensed assistive personnel to demonstrate modified dressing techniques to the client before discharge.
- CComfort the client by explaining that these fears are common and physical therapy will handle all bathing and dressing concerns.
- DProp the residual limb on a pillow to prevent edema and consult the medical social worker to arrange for an assisted living facility.
Answer
Request a consultation with occupational therapy to assess the client's need for adaptive equipment and provide self-care training.
The client's primary concern relates to safely performing activities of daily living (ADLs), specifically bathing and dressing. Occupational therapists specialize in promoting client independence by evaluating the ability to perform ADLs, recommending specific adaptive equipment, and providing targeted self-care training. Requesting an occupational therapy consultation directly addresses the client's functional deficit through appropriate interprofessional collaboration.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Interprofessional Scope of Practice and Care Coordination