A nurse is updating the plan of care for a client who has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with dysphagia. Which of the following interprofessional team members should the nurse identify as the priority to consult?
Dietitian
Physical therapist
Speech-language pathologist
Occupational therapist
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A option:
Dietitian should not be consulted: The dietitian is an essential team member and will work closely with the client to ensure proper nutrition and dietary management. However, in the context of dysphagia, the speech-language pathologist's expertise is needed to determine safe swallowing strategies and food modifications.
Choice B option:
Physical therapist should not be consulted: The physical therapist focuses on maintaining and improving the client's physical function and mobility. While important in ALS management, the physical therapist's role is not directly related to the immediate issue of dysphagia.
Choice C option:
The speech-language pathologist is the correct answer because it specializes in assessing and treating communication and swallowing disorders. In this case, the speech-language pathologist is essential in evaluating the client's swallowing function, recommending appropriate dietary modifications (texture and consistency of foods), and implementing swallowing exercises or strategies to improve swallowing safety.
Choice D option:
Occupational therapist should not be consulted: The occupational therapist assists clients in regaining or maintaining independence in daily living activities. While the occupational therapist may address some aspects of mealtime activities and adaptive strategies, the speech-language pathologist is more specialized in evaluating and treating swallowing difficulties in clients with ALS.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Allow the client's partner to translate. While the partner may be well-intentioned, using a family member or friend as an ad-hoc interpreter can compromise the confidentiality of the information and may not accurately convey the client's medical concerns.
Choice B reason:
Have the client's child translate. Relying on a child to translate sensitive medical information is inappropriate, as it may burden the child and may lead to potential misunderstandings or omissions in communication.
Choice C reason:
Ask a nursing student who speaks the same language as the client to translate. Although a nursing student who speaks the same language as the client may be able to assist, using a professional interpreter is the preferred option. Professional interpreters have specific training in medical terminology and communication, ensuring the most accurate and effective exchange of information.
Choice D reason:
Using a professional interpreter is essential in situations where the healthcare provider and the client do not speak the same language. It ensures accurate communication, maintains confidentiality, and prevents misunderstandings. In this scenario, the nurse should request an interpreter who is proficient in the client's language to assist with the admission process.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A is incorrect because diarrhea is not an adverse effect of clonidine, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as infection, inflammation, or food intolerance.
B is correct because dry mouth is a common adverse effect of clonidine, which is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that reduces sympathetic nervous system activity.
C is incorrect because photophobia, or sensitivity to light, is not an adverse effect of clonidine, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as migraine, eye injury, or infection.
D is incorrect because bruising, or bleeding under the skin, is not an adverse effect of clonidine, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as coagulation disorders, vitamin deficiency, or trauma.
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