The practical nurses (PN) notes that an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is ambulating a male client who had a stroke and has right-sided weakness. The UAP is walking on the client's left side. Which action should the PN take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Tell the UAP to take the client back to his room: Simply having the client return to the room does not correct the unsafe ambulation technique. Immediate guidance on proper positioning is more effective for preventing falls and injuries. B. Provide client an assistive device, such as a cane or walker: While assistive devices can improve stability, proper ambulation technique and caregiver positioning are essential first steps to ensure safety during ambulation. C. Take over the ambulation and counsel the UAP later: Taking over may prevent immediate harm, but it misses the opportunity to educate the UAP on proper technique, which is critical for ongoing client safety. D. Instruct the UAP to walk on the client's affected side: The caregiver should walk on the client’s weak (affected) side to provide support, assist with balance, and prevent falls. Correct positioning during ambulation is the priority intervention to maintain safety.