How should nursing staff respond to a resident expressing readiness to learn a new skill post-CVA?

When a resident expresses a readiness to learn a new skill after suffering a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), identifying the occupational therapist for the task is the most appropriate response. Occupational therapists are specifically trained to assist individuals in regaining skills that may have been affected by a stroke, focusing on activities of daily living and other functional abilities. They use tailored strategies and techniques to support the resident's learning process, ensuring safety while promoting independence.

In this case, by involving the occupational therapist, the nursing staff are facilitating a specialized approach to rehabilitation that can optimize the resident's recovery and enhance their quality of life. The involvement of an expert ensures that the training is both safe and effective, addressing the specific needs of the resident following their stroke.

Focusing on other options, while providing encouragement and limiting attempts may lead to frustration for the resident, and delaying training until the resident is deemed stable might impede their motivation and readiness to learn. Additionally, only assisting them to the physical therapy session does not specifically address the unique skills they wish to develop but rather directs them toward generic rehabilitation without targeted support.