NCLEX-PN

Beyond these devices, additional aids like pillows, bolsters, and wedges come into play to position clients in ways that foster proper body alignment. For clients who are alert, oriented, and possess full range of motion, encouragement to change positions regularly is essential. Those unable to do so independently rely on nursing staff to reposition them at least every two hours . This proactive approach is crucial in mitigating risks such as pressure ulcers and contractures —potential outcomes of immobility. Braces and splints serve as further aids for addressing physical impairments. These devices are also carefully tailored and customized by prosthetists to suit each client's unique needs. When utilized, the nurse assumes the responsibility of ensuring their correct application. Moreover, vigilant assessment of skin condition, temperature, and color beneath these devices becomes integral to maintaining skin integrity and proper circulation. This comprehensive approach to assistive devices underscores the pivotal role they play in enhancing clients' well-being and quality of life. As caretakers, nurses must be well-versed in both the selection and application of these devices, with a steadfast commitment to ensuring client comfort, safety, and optimal functioning. Empowering Clients with Assistive Devices and Prostheses for Enhanced Self-Care In conjunction with the previously discussed assistive devices and prostheses, there exists an array of supplementary aids designed to facilitate various aspects of client self-care. These devices are instrumental in addressing communication, eating, dressing, grooming, dentition, and other daily activities . As touched upon in the section titled "Assessing the client for Actual/Potential Difficulty with Communication and a Speech, Vision, and/or Hearing Problem," an extensive range of assistive devices was explored. This includes telecommunication tools that empower clients to communicate effectively despite sensory impairments. A compilation of assistive devices that promote and bolster independent self-care, along with activities of daily living, is outlined below: Grooming Self-Care ●​ Adaptive hair brushes ●​ Specialized combs ●​ Unique nail clippers

Dressing Self-Care

●​ Extended shoe horns ●​ Button hooks ●​ Enlarged buttons

●​ Sock assists ●​ Oversized loops ●​ Zipper aids

●​ Velcro fasteners for clothing

Hygiene and Bathing Self-Care ●​ Shower chairs

●​ Secure grab bars

306

© 2025 ACHIEVE ULTIMATE CREDIT-BY-EXAM GUIDE | NCLEX-PN ​

​

​

​

​