What is the priority admission data for a home health nurse assessing a client with ALS and weight loss?

In assessing a client with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and weight loss, the priority admission data centers around swallowing ability. Clients with ALS often experience progressive muscle weakness that impacts their ability to swallow, putting them at significant risk for aspiration and malnutrition.

When a client shows signs of weight loss, it can be a direct consequence of difficulties with swallowing, which may lead to inadequate nutrition and dehydration. Therefore, understanding the client's swallowing ability is crucial for determining the best approach to nutrition and feeding methods. It can also inform the healthcare team about the need for potential interventions, such as nutritional support or modified diets to ensure the client receives adequate nutrition while minimizing the risk of aspiration.

While mobility level, respiratory function, and diet history are important factors to consider in the overall care of a client with ALS, swallowing ability directly relates to immediate safety and nutrition, making it the priority area to assess.