A nurse is providing teaching to a client who speaks a different language than the nurse and an interpreter is present. Which of the following findings should the nurse document that shows the client understands the teaching?

A. The client has gained 4.5 kg (10 lb) over 8 weeks: Weight gain may indicate changes in diet, activity, or medication, but it does not directly suggest a need for physical therapy. A nutritionist or primary care provider might be more appropriate for follow-up.

B. The caregiver reports that recently the client is incontinent of urine during the day:
Urinary incontinence in clients with Alzheimer's is typically addressed by primary care or urology. It may be related to cognitive decline rather than physical impairment, so physical therapy is not the priority referral.

C. The client is unable to climb the stairs to their bedroom: This mobility limitation increases the risk for falls and functional decline. A physical therapist can assess strength, balance, and coordination, and develop a mobility plan or recommend assistive devices or home modifications.

D. The caregiver reports the client needs assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing: This indicates a need for occupational therapy to enhance independence in daily tasks. While physical therapy may support mobility, ADL support is better addressed by an occupational therapist.

A. Client smiles and nods at the nurse: Smiling and nodding can be polite social gestures that do not necessarily reflect comprehension, especially when the client and nurse do not share a common language. These nonverbal cues might simply indicate that the client is listening or being courteous, rather than fully understanding the teaching content.

B. Client makes eye contact with the nurse frequently: Eye contact varies significantly across cultures; some cultures view direct eye contact as respectful, while others may see it as disrespectful or confrontational. Therefore, frequent eye contact is not a reliable indicator of understanding, especially in cross-cultural communication.

C. Client has no questions for interpreter: The absence of questions could indicate multiple possibilities, such as the client feeling hesitant to speak up, lack of understanding of the information, or cultural norms that discourage questioning authority figures. Silence alone does not confirm comprehension of the teaching.

D. Client points to objects on printed resources when nurse is speaking: Active participation, such as pointing to objects on visual aids or printed materials, shows that the client is processing and connecting the teaching information to tangible items. This behavior demonstrates engagement and comprehension.