A charge nurse is observing a staff nurse performing a wound irrigation for a client who has a pressure injury. Which of the following actions by the staff nurse indicates an understanding of the procedure?

A. Occupational therapist: While occupational therapists may be involved in the client's care post-stroke to address functional abilities and activities of daily living, including feeding and meal preparation, they are not specifically trained to assess and treat swallowing disorders like a speech-language pathologist.

B. Physical therapist: Physical therapists focus on improving mobility, strength, balance, and coordination. While they play a crucial role in stroke rehabilitation, particularly in addressing gait and motor deficits, they are not typically involved in the assessment and treatment of swallowing disorders.

C. Social worker: Social workers provide support and resources to clients and their families to address psychosocial and practical concerns related to illness, disability, and rehabilitation. While they may be involved in the client's care for broader support needs, they are not specifically trained to address swallowing disorders like a speech-language pathologist.

D. Speech-language pathologist

A speech-language pathologist specializes in evaluating and treating communication and swallowing disorders. In this scenario, the client's coughing during swallowing indicates a potential swallowing disorder, known as dysphagia, which is common after a stroke. The speech-language pathologist is trained to assess the client's swallowing function, identify any impairments, and develop a treatment plan to improve swallowing safety and efficiency. They may recommend strategies and exercises to address the client's coughing and prevent complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

A. Asking the family if they wish to assist in washing the client's body:

This is an important first step because it respects the family's cultural or religious practices and allows them to participate in the care of their loved one if they choose. It sets the tone for sensitive and respectful postmortem care.

B. Removing the client's dentures for their family to keep:

Dentures are usually leftin the mouth tomaintain facial shape.However, this action is not the first priority.

C. Leaving the client's eyes open until the family views the body:

It is generally recommended to gently close the client's eyes after death as part of the postmortem care process. Leaving the eyes open might be distressing for the family, so this action should not be performed first.

D. Turn overhead lights to a bright setting.

Bright lighting may not be comforting for the family or create a peaceful environment. Dim or soft lighting is usually preferred to create a calming atmosphere during this sensitive time. Therefore, this is not the first action the nurse should take.