A nursing supervisor in an acute care facility must recommend a client for discharge to make room for a client who was injured during an explosion. Which of the following clients should the nurse recommend for discharge?

Rationale:

A. This option is correct because occupational therapists help clients with hemiparesis regain independence in activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, grooming, and feeding. They provide adaptive techniques and devices to compensate for functional deficits caused by the stroke.

B. This option is correct because physical therapists focus on improving mobility, balance, and strength. For a client with hemiparesis, physical therapy can help restore functional movement, prevent contractures, and maintain joint flexibility, all of which support performing ADLs safely.

C. This option is incorrect because an audiologist evaluates and manages hearing disorders. While important for communication, an audiologist does not directly assist with ADLs or stroke-related motor deficits.

D. This option is incorrect because a respiratory therapist focuses on managing breathing and pulmonary function. Although they may be involved if the client has respiratory complications, they do not directly assist with ADLs or swallowing deficits.

E. This option is correct because a speech-language pathologist addresses dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) and communication deficits following a stroke. They provide strategies and exercises to improve safe eating and drinking, which directly affects the client’s ability to perform self-feeding as part of ADLs.

Rationale:

A. This option is incorrect because a social worker assists clients with psychosocial needs, community resources, or discharge planning. While helpful in addressing social or environmental concerns, a social worker does not provide direct interventions for physical limitations related to bathing or daily living activities.

B. This option is incorrect because a speech-language pathologist evaluates and treats communication and swallowing disorders. Difficulty with bathing is not within their scope of practice.

C. This option is incorrect because a respiratory therapist focuses on managing clients’ respiratory needs, such as oxygen therapy, ventilator management, and breathing exercises. They do not assist with activities of daily living like bathing.

D. This option is correct because an occupational therapist (OT) specializes in helping clients regain independence in activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, and grooming. The OT can assess the client’s functional abilities, recommend adaptive equipment, and provide strategies to safely perform self-care after a fall or injury.