A home care nurse is inspecting a patient’s house for safety issues. Which findings will cause the nurse to address the safety problems? (Select all that apply)
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Bathtub grab bars enhance safety by preventing falls during bathing, a common risk area for injuries. This is a positive finding, reducing the likelihood of accidents, and does not require intervention. The nurse would not address this as a safety problem, making it incorrect. Choice B reason: A faintly lit stairway increases fall risk, especially for older adults or those with visual impairments. Poor lighting obscures steps, leading to missteps or tripping. The nurse must address this by recommending brighter lighting or handrails to ensure safe navigation, making this a correct safety concern. Choice C reason: Low pile carpeting is safe, as it reduces tripping hazards compared to high pile or loose rugs. It provides stable footing without obstructing mobility. This finding does not pose a safety risk, so the nurse would not address it, making it an incorrect choice. Choice D reason: Scatter rugs in the kitchen are a tripping hazard, particularly in high-traffic areas. They can slide or bunch, increasing fall risk, especially for elderly patients. The nurse must address this by recommending removal or securing rugs, making this a correct safety concern to mitigate accidents. Choice E reason: Absence of smoke alarms is a critical safety issue, as it leaves the home vulnerable to undetected fires, endangering the patient. The nurse must address this by recommending installation of smoke detectors, ensuring early warning for emergencies, making this a correct safety concern.