Mr. S is living alone at age 82 . His wife of more than 50 years died recently

Question

Visiting his home, his nurse finds that Mr. S is eating well and maintaining his mobility but neglecting his personal hygiene. His clothes are dirty, and his body odor is strong. What should be his nurse's first action?
A) Explain to Mr. S the health benefits of keeping clean
B) Probe the reasons why Mr. S is not bathing or doing laundry
C) Offer time-saving bathing tips and advice on easy methods for washing clothes
D) Motivate Mr. S to take the time and trouble to keep clean

Answer 1

B
Feedback:
Although all the choices may be important parts of the nurse's communication with Mr. S, the necessary first step is to determine the underlying reasons for his poor hygiene. Self-care requires three elements: ability, desire, and skill. If Mr. S is unclean because he is physically unable, the nurse may take one course of action. If his poor hygiene is the result of lack of motivation, a different approach is warranted.