A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has multiple sclerosis. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. "Avoid exercising in warm places.": Heat can temporarily worsen symptoms of multiple sclerosis, such as fatigue, weakness, and spasticity, due to slowed nerve conduction. Clients should exercise in cool environments or use cooling techniques to prevent symptom exacerbation. B. "Walk with your feet close together.": Walking with feet close together can increase the risk of imbalance and falls in clients with MS, who often have gait disturbances. Maintaining a wider stance or using assistive devices improves stability and safety during ambulation. C. "Decrease your daily fluid intake.": Fluid restriction is not recommended for MS and can lead to dehydration and urinary tract complications. Adequate hydration helps maintain bladder function and overall health. D. "Apply an ice pack to spastic muscles.": Cold therapy does not effectively relieve muscle spasticity in MS; instead, heat may temporarily reduce muscle stiffness. Ice packs are more appropriate for acute inflammation or injury rather than chronic spasticity.