A nurse at a rehabilitation center is planning care for a client who had a left hemispheric cerebrovascular accident (CVA) 3 weeks ago. Which of the following goals should the nurse include in the client’s rehabilitation program? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Improving left-side motor function is a key goal post-left hemispheric CVA, as this region controls the right side of the body. Stroke-related damage often causes right hemiparesis, and rehabilitation through physical therapy strengthens motor pathways, enhances neural plasticity, and restores function, improving independence and quality of life. Choice B reason: Controlling impulsive behavior is more relevant for right hemispheric strokes, which affect emotional regulation and impulse control. Left hemispheric strokes typically impair language and right-sided motor function, not impulsivity. This goal is less applicable, as the left hemisphere primarily governs logical and linguistic functions, not behavioral regulation. Choice C reason: Establishing effective communication is critical post-left hemispheric CVA, as this area includes Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas, responsible for speech production and comprehension. Stroke damage often causes aphasia, and speech therapy during rehabilitation strengthens neural pathways, improving communication skills essential for social interaction and daily functioning. Choice D reason: Compensating for loss of depth perception is not typically associated with left hemispheric CVA. Visual deficits like hemianopia are more common with right hemispheric or occipital lobe strokes. Left hemispheric strokes primarily affect motor and language functions, making depth perception compensation an irrelevant goal for this client.