Which intervention is most appropriate for the nursing diagnostic statement, Impaired verbal communication related to loss of facial motor control and decreased sensation?

Question

a. Obtain an interpreter for the patient as soon as possible.
b. Assist the patient in performing swallowing exercises each shift.
c. Ask the family to provide a sitter to remain with the patient at all times.
d. Provide the patient with a writing board each shift.

Answer 1

D
The cause of the patient's problem will help guide the nurse to the proper nursing intervention. If the patient has a problem with verbal communication, then the nurse should choose an intervention that will address the problem. Providing the patient with a writing board will allow the patient to communicate by writing because the patient is unable to communicate verbally at this time. Obtaining an interpreter might be an appropriate intervention if the patient spoke a foreign language. Assisting with swallowing exercises will help the patient with swallowing, which is a different nursing diagnosis from Impaired verbal communication. Asking the family to provide a sitter at all times is many times unrealistic and does not promote the patient's independence, as does providing a writing board.