An occupational therapist is working with a client who has an impaired right upper extremity re-sulting from a lower motor neuron dysfunction. What is a common problem that the therapist will have to address?

A. Speech disorders
B. Impaired ability to learn and perform
C. Difficulty with motor planning
D. Reduction of work speed and dexterity

ANS: D
The client with hemiplegia (caused by central nervous system dysfunction) needs specialized teaching, and many such clients have greater difficulty performing one-handed skills than do in-dividuals with orthopedic problems or those with lower motor neuron dysfunction. The major problems for the one-handed worker are reduction of work speed and dexterity and stabilization to substitute for the role normally assumed by the nondominant arm. The major problems for the individual with hemiplegia are balance and precautions relative to sensory, perceptual, and cogni-tive losses.