A client with arthritis reports difficulty when cutting food. What SHOULD the nurse aide do to encourage the client's independence in eating?

Encouraging a client with arthritis to maintain their independence while eating is essential for their dignity and self-esteem. By assisting the client in cutting the food while also encouraging the use of special eating utensils, the nurse aide empowers the client to participate actively in their meal. This approach fosters a sense of autonomy, as the client can still engage with the food preparation process by using adaptive tools designed to make eating easier for those with mobility challenges.

Adaptive utensils may include items such as knives with thicker grips or utensils with angled handles that reduce strain on the hands and wrists. Allowing the client to use these tools promotes practice and skill improvement, which can enhance their confidence in managing daily activities. This combination of assistance and encouragement helps the client retain a crucial level of independence despite their physical limitations.

In contrast, pre-cutting all food items before serving may seem convenient but does not support the client's need for engagement or independence. Telling the client to ask family members for help or offering to feed the client may limit their participation and could lead to feelings of dependency, which is counterproductive to the objective of promoting self-sufficiency.