Which of the following is an appropriate recommendation for client education regarding narcolepsy?

A. Consuming large meals high in carbohydrates is not recommended for managing narcolepsy. Large meals, especially those high in carbohydrates, can lead to drowsiness and exacerbate daytime sleepiness, which is already a significant concern in narcolepsy. Instead, smaller, balanced meals are typically advised to avoid large fluctuations in blood sugar levels and excessive sleepiness.
B. Exercise regularly is an appropriate recommendation. Regular physical activity can help improve overall health, mood, and sleep patterns. For individuals with narcolepsy, exercise can also help manage excessive daytime sleepiness and improve alertness. However, it is important to avoid exercising too close to bedtime, as it can interfere with nighttime sleep.
C. Engaging in activities that increase sleepiness is not recommended. Sitting for long periods or being in warm environments can exacerbate daytime sleepiness and make it harder to stay awake. People with narcolepsy should avoid these situations and instead focus on strategies that help them stay alert and manage their sleepiness effectively.
D. Avoiding naps is generally not advised for individuals with narcolepsy. Controlled, planned naps can help manage excessive daytime sleepiness and improve overall function. Instead of avoiding naps, the focus should be on managing nap times effectively to help mitigate the symptoms of narcolepsy and maintain a regular sleep-wake schedule.

A. Crutches should not be used to support body weight under the arms, as this can cause nerve damage or discomfort. Instead, weight should be supported on the hands and arms, with the crutches positioned to support the client’s weight. Proper use involves placing the crutches slightly in front of the feet, with weight supported on the hands, not the underarms.
B. While it's important to be aware of your surroundings, looking down at your feet can be counterproductive as it may affect balance and coordination. The client should maintain an upright posture and look ahead to ensure proper gait and balance while moving. This helps in coordinating the movement of crutches and feet more effectively.
C. In a four-point gait, each crutch and foot move alternately, which is different from the three-point gait. The three-point gait involves moving both crutches and the affected leg forward simultaneously, followed by the unaffected leg.
D. In the three-point gait, the client moves both crutches forward at the same time while keeping the affected leg off the ground or in a non-weight-bearing position. Then, the client swings the unaffected leg forward to step past the crutches. This method ensures that weight is only placed on the unaffected leg while moving.