A community health nurse is performing a home visit for a client and is evaluating the home environment for safety. Which of the following findings would indicate to the nurse that the client has a proper understanding of safety in the home?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. A small area rug is placed at the front door: Area rugs increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults or clients with mobility issues. Rugs should be removed or secured with non-slip backing to prevent tripping hazards at entrances and high-traffic areas. B. The water heater is set at 54° C (129.2° F): This temperature is too high and poses a significant risk for burns or scalding. The recommended maximum water heater setting for safety is 49° C (120° F), especially in homes with children or older adults. C. The batteries in the smoke alarms are changed annually: Changing smoke alarm batteries once a year aligns with fire safety recommendations. Functioning smoke alarms are a critical part of home safety and fire prevention. D. A single light fixture hangs along the sidewalk to the house: One light may not provide adequate visibility, especially in poor weather or at night. Multiple, evenly spaced light sources are more effective for preventing trips or falls along walkways.