Discharge Plan for Clients with Impaired Peripheral Sensation

What should be included in the discharge plan for a client with MS who has an impaired peripheral sensation?

Select all that apply:

A. Carefully test the temperature of bath water

B. Avoid kitchen activities because of the risk for injury

C. Avoid hot water bottles and heating pads

D. Inspect the skin daily for injury or pressure points

E. Wear warm clothing when outside in cold temperatures

Answer:

Discharge plan for a client with MS and impaired peripheral sensation should include: testing bath water temperature, avoiding hot water bottles and heating pads, inspecting skin daily for injury or pressure points, wearing warm clothing when it's cold, and cautiously performing kitchen activities.

A nurse discharging a client with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) who has impaired peripheral sensation should include a few key points in the discharge plan. This includes:

  • Carefully test the temperature of bath water: The client may not correctly perceive temperature, so it is important to prevent burns.
  • Avoid hot water bottles and heating pads: Due to the risk of burns, it is recommended to steer clear of these items.
  • Inspect the skin daily for injury or pressure points: Since the client may not feel an injury, it is crucial to check for any signs of injury that could lead to infection.
  • Wear warm clothing when it's cold: The client may not perceive the cold temperature adequately, so wearing warm clothing is essential to prevent hypothermia.
  • Cautiously perform kitchen activities: While kitchen activities should not be completely avoided to maintain independence, they should be done with caution to prevent injuries.

By incorporating these strategies into the discharge plan, the nurse can help the client with MS and impaired peripheral sensation maintain their safety and well-being after leaving the healthcare facility.

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