A nurse is assisting with planning care for a client who has a new diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Which of the interventions should the nurse recommend?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Recommend frequent hot baths: Hot baths can exacerbate symptoms in clients with multiple sclerosis by increasing fatigue and worsening muscle weakness due to a rise in core body temperature. Clients are usually advised to avoid overheating and use cooling strategies instead to manage their symptoms. B. Encourage the client to restrict performing range-of-motion exercises: Range-of-motion exercises are important in maintaining joint flexibility, muscle strength, and overall mobility. Restricting these exercises could lead to increased stiffness, weakness, and decreased functional ability in clients with multiple sclerosis. C. Monitor the client's ability to perform ADLs: Monitoring the client's ability to perform activities of daily living is essential because multiple sclerosis often leads to progressive physical limitations. Regular assessment helps in planning appropriate interventions, promoting independence, and adjusting care as the disease progresses. D. Initiate contact precautions: Contact precautions are not necessary for clients with multiple sclerosis because it is not an infectious disease. Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune, neurodegenerative condition that requires supportive care rather than infection control measures.