A nurse is planning care for a client who has sciatica and a prescription for a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit. Which of the following referrals should the nurse anticipate for this client?

A. "I can expect my eyelids to be bruised after this procedure": Bruising of the eyelids is not a common expectation following cataract removal surgery. While mild redness or irritation may occur, significant bruising is not typical.
B. "I will see dark spots in my vision after this procedure": Seeing dark spots in vision after cataract removal surgery is not expected. The purpose of cataract surgery is to improve vision by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. Dark spots in vision may indicate complications such as retinal detachment, which should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider.
C. "I will receive general anesthesia for this procedure": Cataract removal surgery typically does not require general anesthesia. Instead, it is commonly performed under local anesthesia with sedation. General anesthesia is reserved for more complex or high-risk procedures. Therefore, this statement indicates a misunderstanding of the anesthesia type for cataract surgery.
D. "I know the provider will replace the lens in my eyes during this procedure": This statement indicates an accurate understanding of the cataract removal procedure. During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore vision. This is the primary goal of the surgery, and the statement reflects the client's understanding of the procedure.

A. Occupational therapist: While occupational therapy may be beneficial for some aspects of managing sciatica, such as ergonomic assessments and activities of daily living modifications, a referral to an occupational therapist is not typically indicated specifically for the use of a TENS unit.
B. Chiropractor: Chiropractic care involves manual adjustments of the spine and other joints, which may provide relief for some individuals with sciatica. However, a referral to a chiropractor is not necessary solely for the use of a TENS unit.
C. Acupuncturist: Acupuncture is a complementary therapy that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing. While acupuncture may be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for sciatica, it is not typically associated with the use of a TENS unit.
D. Physical therapist: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the management of sciatica. A physical therapist can provide tailored exercises, stretches, and modalities such as TENS therapy to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and strengthen muscles. Therefore, a referral to a physical therapist is appropriate for a client with sciatica who has a prescription for a TENS unit. The physical therapist can assess the client's condition, educate them on the proper use of the TENS unit, and integrate it into their overall treatment plan.