A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is assessing a client who has had a stroke. For which of the following findings should the nurse initiate a referral for occupational therapy?

The correct answer is A: Difficulty performing ADLs. Occupational therapy focuses on improving a person's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) independently. After a stroke, clients may have difficulty with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and feeding themselves. Referring the client to occupational therapy can help them regain independence and improve their quality of life. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly relate to the scope of occupational therapy. Swallowing issues (B) may require a speech therapist, elevated blood glucose levels (C) are managed by medical interventions, and an unsteady gait (D) may be addressed by physical therapy.