A nurse is collecting a blood pressure (BP) reading from a client who is sitting in a chair. The nurse determines that the client's BP is 158/96 mm Hg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Social worker:

While social workers play a crucial role in addressing various aspects of a patient's well-being, such as psychosocial needs and support systems, they may not be the primary healthcare team member to address the specific issue of a client with severe rheumatoid arthritis being unable to feed herself.

B. Physician assistant:

Physician assistants are medical professionals who work under the supervision of a physician. While they contribute to the overall care of the patient, they may not be the primary specialist for addressing the functional limitations and specific needs associated with severe rheumatoid arthritis.

C. Physical therapist:

Physical therapists primarily focus on physical rehabilitation, movement, and mobility. While they may be involved in the overall care plan for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis, the specific issue of hand function and activities of daily living, such as feeding, is more directly addressed by occupational therapists.

D. Occupational therapist:

The correct choice. Occupational therapists specialize in helping individuals regain or improve their ability to perform daily activities, such as feeding, dressing, and grooming. In the case of severe rheumatoid arthritis affecting the hands, an occupational therapist can work with the client to develop strategies, adaptive equipment, and exercises to enhance hand function and promote independence in activities of daily living.

A. "Increase intake of vitamin B12":

Vitamin B12 is important for various bodily functions, including the health of nerves and red blood cells, but it is not directly associated with osteoporosis prevention. Calcium and vitamin D are more critical nutrients for bone health.

B. "Walk for 30 minutes three to five times each week":

Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, are beneficial for preventing osteoporosis. Weight-bearing activities stimulate bone formation and help maintain bone density. Regular walking for 30 minutes, three to five times per week, can contribute to overall bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

C. "Perform water aerobics three times each week":

While water aerobics is a beneficial exercise for cardiovascular health and joint flexibility, it is not as effective as weight-bearing exercises for preventing osteoporosis. Weight-bearing activities put stress on bones, promoting bone density.

D. "Maintain a lean body mass":

Maintaining a healthy body weight and lean body mass is important for overall health, but it is not a direct preventive measure for osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises and adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D are more specific recommendations for preventing osteoporosis.