Question

When planning the care of a client with rheumatoid arthritis, which plan would be best to assist with activities of daily living? A. Teach the client methods of energy conservation. B. Provide the client with a shower chair. C. Encourage family members to take over challenging activities. D. Provide the client with large handled instruments for eating.

Short answer

The best plan to assist with activities of daily living for a client with rheumatoid arthritis is A. Teach the client methods of energy conservation because it addresses a broad range of ADLs and promotes independence.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the goal of the care plan

Understand that the focus of the care plan is to assist the client with rheumatoid arthritis in performing activities of daily living (ADLs) independently and efficiently.

Evaluate option A

Consider that teaching the client methods of energy conservation could help the client prioritize tasks and minimize fatigue, thereby improving the ability to perform ADLs.

Evaluate option B

Assess how providing a shower chair may aid the client's independence in bathing, but consider if it sufficiently addresses the broader range of ADLs.

Evaluate option C

Determine whether encouraging family members to take over challenging activities will enhance the client's independence or potentially contribute to reduced self-sufficiency.

Evaluate option D

Examine how providing large handled instruments for eating may aid the client's ability to eat independently, yet think about its impact on other ADLs.

Choose the best plan

Decide that the best plan for assisting with activities of daily living is the one that empowers the client to perform a wide range of ADLs independently while conserving energy.

Key concepts

Energy Conservation Methods

Living with rheumatoid arthritis presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to completing activities of daily living, or ADLs. One effective strategy for managing these challenges is the use of energy conservation methods.

Energy conservation involves identifying and implementing practical ways to perform tasks with the least amount of stress and strain on the body. This is crucial for someone with rheumatoid arthritis, as fatigue is a common symptom.

• Planning and prioritizing activities can help ensure that the most important tasks are completed when energy levels are highest.
• Teaching the client to take regular breaks during activities prevents overexertion.
• Encouraging proper body mechanics, such as sitting instead of standing during certain tasks, reduces joint strain.

By applying energy conservation techniques, individuals can maintain a level of independence and improve their quality of life.

Assistive Devices for ADLs

Understanding Assistive Devices

When it comes to managing rheumatoid arthritis, assistive devices are invaluable tools that can make a significant difference in daily life. These devices are specifically designed to aid in the completion of ADLs, helping to enhance autonomy and reduce discomfort.

• Shower chairs, as one example, can provide stability and reduce the risk of falls while bathing.
• Large-handled instruments for eating, mentioned in option D, cater to those with limited hand and wrist mobility.
• Other items, like button hooks and zipper pulls, simplify dressing tasks.

By incorporating these devices into their care plan, individuals with rheumatoid arthritis can experience less pain and fatigue, leading to a greater sense of independence.

Promoting Independence in ADLs

Promoting independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) lies at the core of a care plan for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. It's not just about assistance—it's about empowerment.

Independence in ADLs is fostered by the combination of energy conservation strategies and the use of assistive devices, but it also requires a supportive environment that encourages self-sufficiency. Occupational therapists often play a key role in this aspect, providing tailored advice to suit an individual's specific needs.

Educational Approach

Education on symptom management, joint protection techniques, and the thoughtful modification of home and work environments are all part of the approach to help clients retain their independence.

Engaging with the client in setting goals and making decisions regarding their care can bolster their confidence and motivation. When family members are part of the care process, it's important they're educated on the importance of not taking over tasks but rather, supporting the client's ability to perform them. This balance is fundamental to ensuring the client's self-reliance is nurtured.