When addressing concerns from a family about a client's safety while driving post-CVA, what is the best action for the occupational therapist to take?

In situations where a family's concerns regarding a client's safety while driving post-cerebrovascular accident (CVA) arise, it is crucial for the occupational therapist to take appropriate steps to ensure the client's well-being. Reporting the information to the physician is the most responsible action because it allows for a comprehensive assessment of the client's medical status and potential impairments that could affect driving safety. The physician can then evaluate the client's ability to drive safely based on medical criteria and symptoms after the CVA, which may include cognitive and physical evaluations.

This action underscores the collaborative nature of healthcare, ensuring that all changes in the client's status are communicated effectively to the physician, who can make necessary referrals or recommendations for further assessments, such as a formal driving evaluation. Involving the physician also prioritizes the client's safety, as it ensures that all aspects of their health are considered before any decisions are made regarding their ability to drive.

Creating a driving assessment plan, while important, is generally a secondary step that would follow after medical information and recommendations from the physician have been obtained. Providing driving lessons or suggesting intervention from the family without proper assessment and medical advice could be inappropriate and potentially unsafe.