A nurse has delegated the application of wrist restraints to an assistive personnel (AP) for a confused patient. The AP has padded the wrist restraints and secured the straps to the bed frame with a double knot.
What action should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale
Locking the wheels of the bed and the wheelchair is an important safety measure when assisting a client to move from the bed to a wheelchair. However, this action alone is not sufficient. The nurse also needs to ensure the client’s safety during the transfer by using proper body mechanics and providing adequate support.
Choice B rationale
Elevating the bed to a position of comfort for the nurse is the correct action. This helps to ensure that the nurse can maintain proper body mechanics during the transfer, reducing the risk of injury to both the nurse and the client.
Choice C rationale
Getting the help of several staff members to lift the client is not typically necessary when transferring a client with generalized weakness from the bed to a wheelchair. With proper positioning and technique, one nurse can often safely assist the client with this type of transfer.
Choice D rationale
Placing the wheelchair at a 90° angle to the bed is not the recommended position when transferring a client from the bed to a wheelchair. Instead, the wheelchair should be positioned parallel to the bed or at a slight angle.

The correct answer is choice A: Provide an adaptive feeding device for the client.

Choice A rationale: Providing an adaptive feeding device, such as a built-up utensil or a swivel spoon, can help clients with limited hand movement feed themselves independently. These devices are designed to make grasping and manipulating utensils easier, promoting independence and self-care.

Choice B rationale: Placing the client in a lateral position might not directly address the issue of limited hand movement, and it could even make feeding more challenging. This position is typically used for clients with swallowing difficulties or those at risk of aspiration.

Choice C rationale: Arranging food groups clockwise on the plate may help clients with visual impairments or cognitive issues, but it would not directly assist a client with limited hand movement during feeding.

Choice D rationale: Initiating a liquid diet for the client is not the most appropriate initial action to address limited hand movement. This might be considered as a last resort if the client is unable to feed themselves with any type of adaptive device or assistance. The priority should be promoting independence and providing appropriate tools to support self-feeding.