Nurse's Pocket Guide

improve balance and coordination can be helpful in rehabilitating
client.
• Schedule ample time to perform exercise activities balanced
with adequate rest periods.
• Provide for safety measures as indicated by individual situation,
including environmental management/fall prevention.
(Refer to ND risk for Falls.)
• Reevaluate ability/commitment periodically. Changes in
strength/endurance signal readiness for progression of
activities or possibly to decrease exercise if overly fatigued.
Wavering commitment may require change in types of
activities, addition of a workout buddy to reenergize
involvement.
• Discuss discrepancies in planned and performed activities
with client aware and unaware of observation. Suggest methods
for dealing with identified problems. May be necessary
when client is using avoidance or controlling behavior, or is
not aware of own abilities due to anxiety/fear.
• Review importance of adequate intake of fluids, especially
during hot weather/strenuous activity.
NURSING PRIORITY NO.4.To promote wellness (Teaching/Discharge
Considerations):
• Review components of physical fitness: 1) muscle strength
and endurance, 2) flexibility, 3) body composition (muscle
mass, percentage of body fat), and 4) cardiovascular health.
Fitness routines need to include all elements to attain maximum
benefits/prevent deconditioning.
• Instruct in safety measures as individually indicated (e.g.,
warm-up and cool down activities, taking pulse before/
during/after activity, wearing reflective clothing when jogging/
reflectors on bicycle, locking wheelchair before transfers,
judicious use of medications, supervision as indicated).
• Recommend keeping an activity/exercise log, including physical/psychological
responses, changes in weight, endurance,
body mass. Provides visual evidence of progress/goal attainment
and encouragement to continue with program.
• Encourage client to involve self in exercise as part of wellness
management for the whole person; encourage parents to set a
positive example for children by participating in exercise and
an active lifestyle.
• Identify community resources, charity activities, support
groups. Community walking/hiking trails, sports leagues,
etc., provide free/low cost options. Activities such as 5K
walks for charity, participation in Special Olympics, or
Information in brackets added by the authors to clarify and enhance
the use of nursing diagnoses.
Diagnostic Studies Pediatric/Geriatric/Lifespan Medications 443
sedentary LIFESTYLE