Compared with acute pain, which of the following statements is true of persistent pain?

Choice A reason: A nasogastric tube may be necessary for some patients with dysphagia, which is difficulty swallowing, but not for dysarthria, which is difficulty speaking.

Choice B reason: Stems from severe rheumatoid arthritis is false because dysarthria is caused by damage to the nerves or muscles that control speech, not by inflammation of the joints.

Choice C reason: Physical therapy can be beneficial is true because dysarthria can be improved by exercises that strengthen the speech muscles and improve coordination.

Choice D reason: Can affect the balance is false because dysarthria does not affect the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because using smooth muscle relaxants is not the most important aspect of care for the nurse to maintain when assisting an older client with urinary incontinence. Smooth muscle relaxants are medications that can relax the bladder and reduce the urge to urinate, but they can also cause side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, or blurred vision. They are not suitable for all types of urinary incontinence, and they should be used with caution and under medical supervision.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because availability of protective rubber garments is not the most important aspect of care for the nurse to maintain when assisting an older client with urinary incontinence. Protective rubber garments are devices that can prevent urine leakage and protect the skin and clothing, but they can also cause skin irritation, infection, or odor. They are not a cure for urinary incontinence, and they should be used as a last resort or in combination with other interventions.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because using indwelling urinary catheters is not the most important aspect of care for the nurse to maintain when assisting an older client with urinary incontinence. Indwelling urinary catheters are tubes that can drain urine from the bladder and collect it in a bag, but they can also cause complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder spasms, or trauma. They are not recommended for long-term use, and they should be used only when other methods have failed or are contraindicated.

Choice D reason: This is correct because maintaining an attitude that is respectful and positive about resolving the problem is the most important aspect of care for the nurse to maintain when assisting an older client with urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence can cause embarrassment, shame, isolation, or depression in older clients, and they may be reluctant to seek help or comply with treatment. The nurse should respect the client's dignity, privacy, and preferences, and provide education, support, and encouragement. The nurse should also assess the underlying causes and contributing factors of urinary incontinence, and implement individualized and evidence-based interventions.