The nurse is planning care for a client with MS who has difficulty with coordination and fine motor skills. Which nursing action best independence with ADLs?

Rationale: A. Adaptive equipment (e.g., utensils with enlarged handles, button hooks, or modified pens) compensates for impaired fine motor skills, allowing the client to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) independently. This approach promotes self-efficacy, autonomy, and dignity, which are essential for maintaining quality of life in MS. Occupational therapy often guides device selection to match specific deficits. B. While physical therapy is important for balance, strength, and gross motor coordination, focusing exclusively on it does not address fine motor deficits needed for feeding, dressing, or writing. This approach neglects key aspects of independence in ADLs. C. Performing all ADLs for the client reduces independence and self-esteem, fosters dependency, and may contribute to learned helplessness. Nursing interventions should aim to maximize patient participation rather than replacing the client’s efforts. D. While pacing is important to manage fatigue in MS, completely restricting self-care prevents skill use and independence. The goal is to balance activity with rest and use adaptive strategies, not to eliminate self-care entirely.