NCLEX-PN® ExaminationBasic Care and ComfortHard
A client with Parkinson's disease is experiencing difficulty with fine motor movements, making self-feeding challenging. Which modification to the client's mealtime environment or utensils would be most beneficial for promoting independence?
- AProviding a straw for all liquids.
- BServing all food pureed for easier consumption.
- COffering a plate with a raised edge (plate guard).
- DEncouraging the use of a standard fork and knife.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Offering a plate with a raised edge (plate guard).
A plate with a raised edge (plate guard) helps clients with tremors or poor coordination to scoop food more easily onto their utensil without spilling, thereby promoting independence in self-feeding. This is a common and effective adaptive device for fine motor challenges.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While a straw might help with some liquids, it doesn't address the primary challenge of scooping solid foods due to fine motor difficulty.
- B. Serving all food pureed may be necessary for dysphagia, but it limits client choice and independence, and doesn't address the fine motor skill challenge directly if the client can chew and swallow solid foods.
- D. Encouraging standard utensils ignores the client's fine motor difficulties and would likely lead to frustration and decreased independence.
Adaptive Aids for Self-Feeding
Adaptive aids for self-feeding are specialized utensils or dining equipment designed to help individuals with motor impairments or disabilities maintain independence during meals.
- Aids compensate for fine motor deficits.
- Promote dignity and independence.
- Selection is based on specific client needs.
Memory trick: Plate Guard for Parkinson's Progress.