Question

An OTR is providing an activity of daily living (ADL) at bedside for a client who recently experienced a stroke and has been in the ICU for two days. The client was allowed to participate in activities as tolerated. However, the client has very low endurance and can only maintain arousal for 5 to 10 minutes. Which of the following self-care activities is MOST APPROPRIATE for a low-level stroke client?

1) Donning a pullover shirt
2) Washing face and upper body
3) Brushing and cleaning dentures
4) Self-feeding with utensils

Answer 1

Brushing and cleaning dentures is the most suitable activity as it demands less physical exertion and can be completed within the short arousal period of a low-endurance stroke client.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a client who recently experienced a stroke and has very low endurance, the most appropriate self-care activity at this early stage of recovery would be brushing and cleaning dentures. This activity is manageable within the 5 to 10 minutes arousal timeframe and requires relatively low physical exertion compared to the other activities listed. Activities such as donning a pullover shirt may require more complex movements which may be challenging. Washing the face and upper body can be more physically demanding and might not be completed within the short timeframe. Self-feeding with utensils can also require more endurance and coordination, which may be compromised post-stroke.