A nurse is planning to assist a client who has left-sided weakness to ambulate using a gait belt. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Choice A rationale:

Using the cane to support body weight is not the correct technique. The purpose of a cane is to provide balance and support, not to bear the entire body weight. Placing the entire body weight on the cane can lead to instability and falls.

Choice B rationale:

Placing the cane next to the unaffected leg (right leg in this case) is the correct technique. This positioning provides additional support and stability on the side opposite to the affected leg. This helps in maintaining balance and reducing the risk of falling.

Choice C rationale:

The type of cane is not as relevant as using it correctly. The material of the cane doesn't impact the client's understanding of how to use it safely. While using a wooden cane might be acceptable, the material itself is not an indication of the client's understanding of safe cane use.

Choice D rationale:

Moving the right leg forward first is not the correct technique for using a cane. The correct foot to move forward first is the affected leg, in this case, the left leg. This allows the client to maintain a stable base of support while moving.

Choice A rationale:

Providing a cup of hot chocolate prior to bedtime is not a suitable intervention for a client reporting difficulty sleeping. Hot chocolate contains caffeine, which can act as a stimulant and interfere with sleep. Caffeine is known to disrupt sleep patterns and should be avoided close to bedtime.

Choice B rationale:

Scheduling exercise activities at least 3 hours before bedtime is the correct intervention for a client experiencing difficulty sleeping. Regular exercise promotes better sleep quality by helping to regulate the sleep-wake cycle and improve sleep duration. However, exercising too close to bedtime can have a stimulating effect, making it harder for the client to fall asleep. By scheduling exercise activities earlier in the day, the client's body will have sufficient time to wind down before bedtime, leading to improved sleep.

Choice C rationale:

Keeping soft music playing at bedtime and throughout the night might not be effective for everyone. While soft music can create a calming environment and help some individuals relax, it may not address the underlying causes of the client's difficulty sleeping. Additionally, some people might find background noise disruptive to their sleep. Therefore, this option might not be as effective as adjusting the timing of exercise.

Choice D rationale:

Scheduling mealtime 2 hours before bedtime is generally a good practice, but it might not directly address the client's reported difficulty sleeping. Consuming heavy or spicy meals close to bedtime can cause discomfort and indigestion, which might interfere with sleep. However, adjusting mealtime alone might not be sufficient to resolve the client's sleep issues, especially if other factors are contributing to their insomnia.