Which diversion activity would the nurse encourage to meet the client's needs during the remission phase of his or her multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Which diversion activity would the nurse encourage to meet the client's needs during the remission phase of his or her multiple sclerosis (MS)?

• A. Hiking
• B. Swimming
• C. Sewing classes
• D. Watching television

Answer: (B)

During remission, activities should support ongoing endurance, strength, safety, and overall well-being without provoking overheating or excessive fatigue. Swimming fits this well: it’s a low-impact, full-body aerobic activity that strengthens muscles and improves cardiovascular fitness while reducing joint strain because of buoyancy. The water environment also helps keep the body cooler, which is important for many people with MS who are sensitive to heat and can worsen symptoms with overheating. It can be paced to an individual’s tolerance and allows social participation if done in a pool setting. Hiking can be too demanding and may expose the person to heat or uneven terrain. Sewing classes and watching television are less focused on maintaining or improving endurance and physical function, though sewing offers fine motor engagement and TV is sedentary. So swimming best meets the goal of supporting physical health and energy management during remission.

During remission, activities should support ongoing endurance, strength, safety, and overall well-being without provoking overheating or excessive fatigue. Swimming fits this well: it’s a low-impact, full-body aerobic activity that strengthens muscles and improves cardiovascular fitness while reducing joint strain because of buoyancy. The water environment also helps keep the body cooler, which is important for many people with MS who are sensitive to heat and can worsen symptoms with overheating. It can be paced to an individual’s tolerance and allows social participation if done in a pool setting.

Hiking can be too demanding and may expose the person to heat or uneven terrain. Sewing classes and watching television are less focused on maintaining or improving endurance and physical function, though sewing offers fine motor engagement and TV is sedentary. So swimming best meets the goal of supporting physical health and energy management during remission.