A nurse is collecting data from a client who is at 20 weeks of gestation and has been taking ferrous sulfate. For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor as a common adverse effect of iron supplementation and report to the provider?

Assessment of a client with dysphagia involves identifying difficulty in swallowing, which may result from neurological disorders, structural abnormalities, or muscle weakness affecting the oropharyngeal phase of swallowing. Dysphagia increases the risk of aspiration, malnutrition, and dehydration. Management requires evaluation of swallowing mechanics and development of safe feeding strategies. Interprofessional care is essential to reduce complications and improve nutritional intake.

Rationale:
A. A respiratory therapist is involved in managing airway clearance, oxygen therapy, and ventilatory support. While dysphagia may increase aspiration risk and respiratory complications, respiratory therapy does not address the underlying swallowing dysfunction. Therefore, this is not the most appropriate referral.

B. A physical therapist focuses on mobility, strength, balance, and functional ambulation. Although mobility may be affected in clients with neurological conditions, physical therapy does not evaluate or treat swallowing difficulties. It is not the priority referral for dysphagia management.

C. A speech-language pathologist (speech therapist) is the appropriate referral because they specialize in evaluating and treating swallowing disorders. In clients with Dysphagia, they assess swallowing mechanics, recommend dietary modifications, and implement strategies to reduce aspiration risk. They also provide exercises to improve coordination of oral and pharyngeal muscles.

D. An occupational therapist assists with activities of daily living such as feeding, dressing, and fine motor skills. While they may support adaptive feeding techniques, they do not directly evaluate or manage swallowing physiology. Therefore, they are not the primary referral for dysphagia.

Postmortem care involves preparing the body after death in a respectful, dignified manner while honoring cultural, religious, and personal preferences. Care is guided by principles of respect, infection control, and preservation of the client’s appearance for family viewing when desired. Because death practices vary widely across cultures and faith traditions, individualized care is essential. Nurses must prioritize communication with the family to ensure postmortem procedures align with the client’s and family’s beliefs.

Rationale:
A. Removing dentures is not the first priority and should be based on whether the family wishes to view the client with natural facial structure maintained. Dentures are often left in place to preserve facial contour and appearance. Removal may be performed later if required for preparation, but it is not the initial priority action before rigor mortis.

B. Turning on all the lights in the room is not a required or standard practice in postmortem care. Family members may prefer a calm, private, and softly lit environment for viewing the deceased. Bright lighting may be distressing and does not contribute to dignity or cultural sensitivity.

C. Positioning the bed flat without a pillow may be part of postmortem positioning, but it is not the priority action compared with ensuring cultural and religious preferences are respected first. Body positioning is performed to maintain alignment and prevent discoloration or pooling, but must be guided by family wishes when possible.

D. Asking the family about cultural or religious practices is the priority because it ensures that postmortem care is individualized and respectful. Different beliefs may influence bathing rituals, body positioning, viewing practices, and handling of the body. This aligns care with ethical nursing principles and promotes dignity after death.