What care setting should a nurse recommend for an older adult client who had a total hip arthroplasty and cannot ambulate independently?

Recommending a skilled nursing facility for an older adult client who has undergone a total hip arthroplasty and cannot ambulate independently is appropriate due to several key considerations. After such a procedure, patients often require close monitoring, assistance with daily activities, and specialized rehabilitation services to ensure a safe and effective recovery.

A skilled nursing facility provides 24-hour medical oversight from nursing staff and the necessary physical therapy sessions to aid in the recovery process. The presence of trained healthcare professionals can assist with medications, wound care, and mobility training, which are crucial in the early stages of recovery. In this setting, the client would receive personalized rehabilitation programs designed to improve strength, mobility, and the overall ability to resume independent living.

Home health care services can be beneficial but might not offer the level of support required immediately following surgery, especially if the patient has significant mobility challenges. An assisted living facility could provide some level of support and community, but it lacks the intensive medical supervision and rehabilitation services that a skilled nursing facility offers right after a surgical procedure. A community rehabilitation center may focus on therapy but may not provide the same comprehensive care and oversight needed after a surgical intervention like a hip replacement.

Overall, a skilled nursing facility most effectively supports the complex care and