Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has difficulty speaking. To which health care provider should the client be referred? a. Audiologist b. Physical therapist c. Surgeon d. Speech–language pathologist

Short answer

d. Speech–language pathologist

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Client's Issue

The client has difficulty speaking, which indicates a problem related to speech or language ability.

Identify Relevant Health Care Providers

Review the options provided: Audiologist, Physical Therapist, Surgeon, Speech–language pathologist.

Match Each Provider to Their Specialty

Determine the specialty of each health care provider: - Audiologist: Specializes in hearing and balance disorders. - Physical Therapist: Focuses on improving physical movement and function. - Surgeon: Performs surgical operations. - Speech–language pathologist: Specializes in speech, language, and swallowing disorders.

Choose the Most Appropriate Provider

Based on the specialties, the Speech–language pathologist is the most appropriate provider for a client with difficulty speaking.

Key concepts

speech-language pathologist

A speech-language pathologist, often abbreviated as SLP, is a professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating speech, language, and swallowing disorders. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of issues, from difficulties with forming words and sentences to complex language impairments.

When a client has trouble speaking, an SLP can perform detailed assessments to identify the underlying cause. They utilize various strategies to help clients improve their communication skills, including exercises to enhance articulation and language comprehension activities. Furthermore, SLPs work with individuals of all ages, from children with developmental disorders to adults who have experienced stroke or brain injuries.

• They develop customized treatment plans.
• Conduct both individual and group therapy sessions.
• Educate clients and their families about techniques to improve communication.

Their goal is to help individuals achieve the highest possible level of independent communication.

nurse decision making

Nurses play a crucial role in the healthcare system and often need to make quick, informed decisions regarding patient care. Effective decision-making involves assessing the patient's needs, evaluating potential interventions, and coordinating with other healthcare providers.

In the context of referring a client with difficulty speaking, a nurse must consider the client's specific condition and decide which specialist's expertise would be most beneficial. In this scenario, identifying that a speech-language pathologist is the appropriate referral requires an understanding of each healthcare provider's role and specialties.

• Nurses assess patient symptoms and health conditions.
• They collaborate with a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive care.
• They make evidence-based decisions to ensure effective client care.

Good decision-making ensures that patients receive timely and appropriate care tailored to their unique needs.

client care

Client care is at the heart of the healthcare profession, emphasizing a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of the patient. For a client experiencing speech difficulties, comprehensive care involves more than just addressing the speech issue itself. It requires understanding the impact of the speech problem on their overall quality of life, including social interactions and emotional wellbeing.

Effective client care involves:

• Assessment: Regularly evaluating the client's condition and progress.
• Intervention: Implementing suitable therapies and treatments.
• Education: Providing the client and their family with information and resources.

By focusing on these aspects, healthcare providers ensure that the client receives a supportive and therapeutic environment that promotes their overall health and well-being.