Question

While assisting a male client who has muscular dystrophy (MD) to the bathroom, the nurse observes that he is awkward and clumsy. When he expresses his frustration and complains of hip discomfort, which intervention should the nurse implement?

Answer 1

The nurse should provide physical support and assistive devices for safe mobility, administer prescribed pain medication, encourage communication, and provide emotional support to a client with muscular dystrophy experiencing awkwardness and hip discomfort.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse observes that a client with muscular dystrophy (MD) is experiencing awkwardness, clumsiness, and hip discomfort, they should implement an intervention that acknowledges the challenges brought on by MD. Muscular dystrophy can lead to myalgia and joint discomfort stemming from muscle weakness and lack of mobility. The nurse's intervention should aim to provide support and alleviate discomfort.

Intervention Steps:

1. Provide physical support and assistance as needed to ensure safe mobility and to prevent falls.
2. Use adaptive equipment if available, such as grab bars or a raised toilet seat, to promote independence and comfort.
3. Administer prescribed medication for pain management, after assessing the level of discomfort and consulting with a healthcare provider.
4. Encourage the client to communicate their needs openly and to signal when they need assistance to avoid overexertion.
5. Suggest resting positions and provide aids like cushions or pillows to alleviate hip discomfort.

In providing the assistance needed, the nurse should maintain empathy, patience, and provide emotional support to address the client's frustration.