Question

A nurse is planning discharge care for a client who has rheumatoid arthritis and has difficulty buttoning clothing. Which of the following referrals should the nurse recommend for the client?

a) Occupational therapy for assistance with activities of daily living.
b) Physical therapy for joint strengthening exercises.
c) Speech therapy for communication enhancement.
d) Dietary counseling for nutritional support.

Answer 1

The best referral for a client with RA struggling with buttoning is to occupational therapy, where they can get help with daily activities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Discharge Care Referral for Rheumatoid Arthritis

For a client with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who has difficulty with activities such as buttoning clothing due to the symptoms affecting their joints, the most appropriate referral would be to occupational therapy. Occupational therapists specialize in helping individuals perform daily living activities more effectively despite their limitations. They can provide adaptive equipment and strategies to assist with dressing, cooking, and other activities that may be challenging due to joint pain and deformation. While physical therapy may be beneficial for joint strengthening exercises and maintaining flexibility, occupational therapy is more targeted toward practical, everyday tasks and enhancing the client's independence. Referrals to speech therapy or dietary counseling may have their own merits but do not directly address the client's immediate issue with buttoning clothing.