The nurse is caring for a client recovering from hip surgery who needs to regain strength to climb the flight of stairs leading to their bedroom at home.
The nurse should recommend a referral to a
The nurse is caring for a client recovering from hip surgery who needs to regain strength to climb the flight of stairs leading to their bedroom at home.
The nurse should recommend a referral to a
A. physical therapist (PT).
[82%]
B. nutritionist.
[0%]
C. case manager.
[1%]
D. occupational therapist (OT).
[17%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Leadership & Management
Lesson
Assignment/Delegation
Client Need
Test Plan
Management of Care
Related Topic
Collaboration with Interdisciplinary Team
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice A is correct. PT is a healthcare professional who specializes in treating physical disabilities and helping clients improve their movement and manage pain. In the context of a client recovering from hip surgery, a physical therapist would focus on exercises and activities that enhance strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility. This includes specific training to help the client safely and effectively climb stairs, which is a critical functional task for someone needing to navigate their home environment.
Choice B is incorrect. A nutritionist cannot help this client with their strength and ability to climb stairs. A nutritionist helps to plan meals for the client and provides education on well-rounded diets.
Choice C is incorrect. A case manager coordinates overall care and resources for the client, ensuring they receive appropriate services and support. While they play a vital role in discharge planning and connecting clients with necessary services, they do not directly treat physical disabilities.
Choice D is incorrect. OT helps clients improve their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and work-related tasks. While OTs can assist with some aspects of physical rehabilitation, their primary focus is on enabling clients to perform daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and cooking, rather than on regaining strength and mobility specifically for tasks like climbing stairs.
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2 Key Topics
Referrals
15.2 Care Coordination & Communication
Additional Info
✓ Ensure effective pain management to facilitate participation in physical therapy. Assess pain regularly and administer prescribed analgesics as needed. Use non-pharmacological methods such as ice packs, heat therapy, and relaxation techniques to complement pain relief.
✓ Observe for signs of complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), infection, and hip dislocation. Report any concerns to the healthcare provider promptly. Monitor the client's surgical site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage.
✓ Studies show that about 20-30% of individuals with hip fractures regain their pre-injury level of functioning within a year after surgery. Early and effective physical therapy is crucial for improving these outcomes .
