An older adult patient arrives at the clinic reporting decreased strength in knees and handgrips. What action should the nurse include in a functional assessment of this patient?

Choice A rationale Inquiring about the frequency of falls in recent months is an important part of a functional assessment for an older adult patient reporting decreased strength in knees and handgrips. Falls can be a sign of decreased muscle strength and balance, which can be associated with aging and certain medical conditions. Choice B rationale Sundowning, or increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon and evening, is a symptom often associated with dementia, not necessarily with decreased strength in knees and handgrips. Choice C rationale While discussing end-of-life care options is an important aspect of comprehensive patient care, it is not directly related to the patient’s reported symptoms of decreased strength. Choice D rationale Requesting the patient to lie as still as possible for the assessment may not provide comprehensive information about the patient’s functional mobility and strength.