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?

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.

A. This choice is incorrect because forgetting to buy a gift is not an example of dissociation, but rather a sign of poor memory or lack of attention.

B. This choice is correct because describing the abuse as if it happened to someone else is an example of dissociation, which is a defense mechanism that involves separating oneself from painful or traumatic experiences.

C. This choice is incorrect because being verbally assertive is not an example of dissociation, but rather a personality trait or a coping skill.

D. This choice is incorrect because blaming the boss for not getting a promotion is not an example of dissociation, but rather a sign of external locus of control or rationalization.