A female client who’s paralyzed on the left side has been receiving physical therapy and attending teaching sessions about safety.. The client uses a mirror to inspect the skin

A female client who’s paralyzed on the left side has been receiving physical therapy and attending teaching sessions about safety.

Which behavior indicates that the client accurately understands safety measures related to paralysis?

• a- The client leaves the side rails down.
• b- The client uses a mirror to inspect the skin.
• c- The client repositions only after being reminded to do so.
• d- The client hangs the left arm over the side of the wheelchair.

The correct answer is b- The client uses a mirror to inspect the skin.

Here's the explanation for why the other options are not correct:

a- The client leaves the side rails down.

While side rails can provide some safety, they can also be a hazard if the client is able to move around independently. Side rails can restrict movement and make it difficult for the client to get in and out of the wheelchair. In addition, side rails can trap the client if the wheelchair tips over.

c- The client repositions only after being reminded to do so.

Repositioning is important for preventing pressure sores, but it is also important to do it regularly and independently. The client should be able to recognize the signs that they need to reposition themselves and do so without having to be reminded.

d- The client hangs the left arm over the side of the wheelchair.

Hanging the arm over the side of the wheelchair can put pressure on the brachial plexus, which is a group of nerves that can be damaged in paralysis. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm and hand.

Therefore, the only behavior that indicates that the client accurately understands safety measures related to paralysis is b- The client uses a mirror to inspect the skin. This behavior shows that the client is aware of the risk of skin breakdown and is taking steps to prevent it.