A nurse is teaching an older adult client about fall prevention strategies at home. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A.
“I will secure electric cords under the carpeting.”.
B.
“I should purchase a skid-proof bathtub mat.”.
C.
“I will wear shoes with leather soles in my house.”.
D.
“I will get some rubber-backed throw rugs for my vinyl floors.”.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. “I should purchase a skid-proof bathtub mat.”
Explanation:
Fall prevention is crucial for older adults, as they are at higher risk of falls due to factors such as decreased balance, muscle strength, and vision changes. Effective fall prevention strategies involve modifying the home environment to reduce hazards and increase safety.
Option B: “I should purchase a skid-proof bathtub mat.”
This statement indicates an understanding of an important fall prevention strategy. Bathrooms are common areas for falls, especially when floors become wet and slippery. A skid-proof or non-slip bathtub mat provides traction and helps prevent slips and falls in the bathtub or shower. This simple modification can significantly reduce the risk of falls and is a recommended practice for maintaining safety in the bathroom.
Option A: “I will secure electric cords under the carpeting.”
While securing electric cords is a good safety measure to prevent tripping hazards, simply running cords under carpeting may not be sufficient. Carpeting can sometimes create uneven surfaces that still pose a tripping risk, and cords may become dislodged or create other hazards. It’s important to use cord covers or secure them in a way that minimizes risk.
Option C: “I will wear shoes with leather soles in my house.”
Leather soles can be slippery on smooth indoor surfaces, which might increase the risk of falling rather than reduce it. The recommendation is to wear shoes with non-slip soles indoors to provide better traction and stability.
Option D: “I will get some rubber-backed throw rugs for my vinyl floors.”
While rubber-backed throw rugs can be helpful, they need to be used with caution. Throw rugs, even with rubber backing, can sometimes shift or bunch up, creating a tripping hazard. A safer option is to ensure that rugs are securely attached to the floor or avoid using them in high-traffic areas.
In summary, the skid-proof bathtub mat is a direct and effective solution to a common fall risk in the home environment.