Question

The nurse cares for a client newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). The nurse recognizes further education is needed based on which client statement?

1) I need to drink about 2 liters of fluid per day."
2) "I should remove the throw rugs from my home."
3) "I should take a hot bath or shower every day."
4) "I need to avoid contact with people who are sick."

Answer 1

Further education is needed when the client with multiple sclerosis believes that taking a hot bath or shower every day is beneficial; heat can exacerbate MS symptoms due to Uhthoff's phenomenon.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse would recognize that further education is needed based on the client's statement: "I should take a hot bath or shower every day." People with multiple sclerosis (MS) may find that heat, including hot baths or showers, can temporarily worsen their symptoms. The heat can lead to a pseudo-exacerbation of symptoms due to the effects of temperature on nerve conduction. This phenomenon is known as Uhthoff's phenomenon. The advice to remove throw rugs and avoid contact with people who are sick are appropriate due to the increased risk of falls and infections, respectively. Drinking about 2 liters of fluid per day aligns with general guidelines for hydration; however, individual needs may vary, especially if there are concerns about bladder control issues, which are common in MS due to autonomic deficits.