A nurse is teaching a client who has a history of falls about home safety. Which of the following statements should the nurse identify as an indication that the client understands the instructions?
A.
“I will place a bath seat in my shower to use when I bathe.”
B.
“I will place an area rug at the entry of my bathroom.”
C.
“I will keep my walker at the end of my bed.”
D.
“I will keep the fluorescent ceiling light on in my room at night.”
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is A. “I will place a bath seat in my shower to use when I bathe.”
Explanation
1. Safety and Fall Prevention:
For a client with a history of falls, ensuring their home environment is safe and reduces the risk of falls is crucial. The use of a bath seat in the shower is a proactive measure to enhance safety. When clients are at risk for falls, standing in the shower can be hazardous due to slippery surfaces and balance issues. A bath seat allows the client to sit while bathing, reducing the risk of slipping and falling.
2. Inappropriate Measures:
- B. “I will place an area rug at the entry of my bathroom.”
Area rugs can be a tripping hazard, especially if they are not secured or have a non-slip backing. Placing a rug in a high-traffic area like the bathroom entryway may increase the risk of falls, which is counterproductive for someone with a history of falls. - C. “I will keep my walker at the end of my bed.”
While it is important for clients who use walkers to have them within easy reach, placing it at the end of the bed might not be the most convenient or safe option. It is better to keep the walker in a location where it can be easily accessed when needed, especially if the client has to use it frequently. - D. “I will keep the fluorescent ceiling light on in my room at night.”
While good lighting is essential for fall prevention, fluorescent lights can be harsh and may not provide the most comforting light for nighttime. Additionally, leaving the main ceiling light on might not be practical or necessary. It might be more beneficial to use nightlights or motion-sensor lights to provide adequate illumination without causing glare or disrupting sleep.
In summary, placing a bath seat in the shower is a clear indication that the client is taking specific and appropriate measures to improve their safety and reduce the risk of falls, demonstrating an understanding of effective home safety strategies.