Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 70%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has severe rheumatoid arthritis in her hands and is unable to feed herself. For which of the following health care team members should the nurse request a referral from the provider?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Occupational therapist. An occupational therapist specializes in helping individuals with physical limitations perform activities of daily living, such as feeding oneself. They can provide adaptive equipment and teach techniques to promote independence. Referring the client to an occupational therapist will address the specific needs related to the client's severe rheumatoid arthritis in her hands.
A: Physician assistant focuses on medical diagnosis and treatment, not specifically on activities of daily living.
B: Physical therapist focuses more on mobility and physical rehabilitation, not specifically on activities like feeding.
D: Social worker focuses on psychosocial aspects and support services, not specifically on physical rehabilitation.
Therefore, the best choice for addressing the client's feeding difficulty due to severe rheumatoid arthritis in her hands is to request a referral to an occupational therapist.
A: Physician assistant focuses on medical diagnosis and treatment, not specifically on activities of daily living.
B: Physical therapist focuses more on mobility and physical rehabilitation, not specifically on activities like feeding.
D: Social worker focuses on psychosocial aspects and support services, not specifically on physical rehabilitation.
Therefore, the best choice for addressing the client's feeding difficulty due to severe rheumatoid arthritis in her hands is to request a referral to an occupational therapist.