What should an occupational therapist do first if a patient with a BK amputation begins to feel weak and dizzy during laundry tasks?

In a situation where a patient with a below-knee (BK) amputation begins to feel weak and dizzy, the occupational therapist must prioritize addressing the immediate needs of the patient. The correct approach is to assess for potential hypoglycemia, which can cause symptoms like weakness and dizziness.

Administering orange juice is appropriate due to its high sugar content, which quickly raises blood sugar levels. This response aims to alleviate the symptoms associated with low blood sugar, making it a critical intervention for someone who may be experiencing these feelings due to inadequate glucose levels. If hypoglycemia is suspected, providing a quick source of sugar is a standard first response, especially before conducting any further assessments or interventions.

In this case, while it might seem beneficial to have the patient sit and rest, or encourage hydration, these actions do not directly address the potential cause of the symptoms. Additionally, taking vital signs is important for overall assessment, but it does not provide immediate relief from the symptoms if they are indeed due to low blood sugar. Therefore, assisting the patient with glucose intake is the most effective and immediate course of action.