A nurse is talking about joint protection strategies with an older adult client who has osteoarthritis. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse reinforce?

A. Close the curtains around the client’s bed.

Closing the curtains around the client's bed is a practical way to maintain the client's privacy during a bed bath. This action provides a visual barrier, ensuring that the client is shielded from the view of others in the room.

B. Close the door of the client’s room.

Closing the door is another way to enhance privacy, but it may not be as feasible in all situations. Closing the curtains provides immediate visual privacy without necessarily closing off the entire room.

C. Ask family members to leave the room.

This option is appropriate if family members are present and their presence is not essential for the bed bath. Asking them to step out temporarily can enhance the client's privacy.

D. Use a blanket to cover the client.

While using a blanket is a way to cover and provide modesty during the bed bath, closing the curtains is a more direct measure to maintain visual privacy. Blankets can be used as needed during the bed bath process.

A. Check that the client lifts the walker and then places it down in front of her.

To ensure proper use of a standard walker and the safety of the client, the nurse should check that the client lifts the walker and then places it down in front of her. This sequence of lifting and moving the walker forward provides stability and support during ambulation.

B. Walk in front of the client to guide her in moving the walker.

The nurse should walk beside or slightly behind the client to provide support and supervision. Walking in front may hinder the client's ability to maneuver the walker.

C. Have the client move one leg forward with the walker.

The proper technique is for the client to move the walker forward and then step into it with the affected leg. Moving one leg forward with the walker may compromise stability.

D. Make sure that the upper bar of the walker is level with the client’s waist.

The correct height of the walker is essential for proper use. The walker should be adjusted to the client's height, with the top bar at the level of the client's wrists when their arms are at their sides, not at the waist.