You are assigning tasks to nursing assistants in a nursing home. Which would be the most appropriate instruction to give to the assistant who will care for Mrs. Scott, a frail 80-year-old woman with arthritis?

a. Tell the NA to give her a bed bath, comb her hair, and brush her teeth
b. Tell the NA to help her use a bedpan
c. Tell the NA to "let her do as much as she can for herself," such as brushing her teeth, combing her hair, and walking to the bathroom with assistance
d. Tell the NA to be sure to bring Mrs. Scott's meal trays to her bed each day


C
The "allow people to do as much for themselves as possible" rule should extend to all of the care you render people in the nursing home, the hospital, or the home. Activities such as walking to the bathroom, brushing the teeth, and combing the hair provide activity and exercise-related physical benefits, such as improved range of motion, and psychological benefits of improved self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. Responses A, B, and D do not allow Mrs. Scott to do for herself. In addition, if possible, she should not eat in bed or use a bedpan; sitting up to eat improves digestion and reduces acid reflux, and walking to the bathroom decreases the risk of constipation.

Nursing

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