57. A client in a long-term care facility refuses to take a shower in the morning and prefers to shower in the evening. The nurse aide SHOULD:
Answer: A
The nurse aide SHOULD follow the request under the client's right to personal choice.
Respecting a client's preference for showering in the evening aligns with their rights to personal choice and autonomy in a long-term care setting.
A) follow the request under the client's right to personal choice
This option is correct because it acknowledges the client's autonomy and respects their personal preferences. In long-term care facilities, it is essential to honor the choices of residents, as this promotes their dignity and well-being.
B) deny the request because evenings are too busy for staff
This option is incorrect as it prioritizes staff convenience over the client's rights. Denying a request based on operational issues disregards the importance of respecting individual preferences and can negatively impact the client's quality of life.
C) convince the client that it is too cold at night for evening showers
This option is incorrect because it attempts to manipulate the client's decision-making rather than respecting their choice. It undermines the client's autonomy and disregards their comfort and preferences regarding personal care.
D) contact the family and report the client's behavior
This option is also incorrect as it suggests that the client's preference is a behavioral issue that needs to be reported. In reality, the client's choice to shower in the evening does not warrant intervention from family members and should be accepted as a valid personal preference.
Conclusion
Following the client's request for an evening shower is the most appropriate response, as it supports their autonomy and right to make choices about their personal care. All other options fail to respect the client's preferences, either by imposing staff schedules or misinterpreting the request as problematic behavior, which could diminish their sense of agency and comfort in the care environment.