A home health nurse is providing education for the family of a client who has dementia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?

Choice A reason: Placing a soft rug in front of the client’s chair increases the risk of tripping and falling. Clients with dementia often have impaired judgment, coordination, and gait instability. Loose rugs are a well-known environmental hazard in home safety assessments, and therefore this intervention is unsafe. Choice B reason: Setting the water heater at 140° F is dangerous because clients with dementia may not recognize the risk of burns. Safe water heater settings are typically recommended at or below 120° F to prevent scalding injuries. High temperatures pose a significant safety risk for cognitively impaired individuals. Choice C reason: Encouraging a 1-hour nap in the afternoon is beneficial. Clients with dementia often experience fatigue, irritability, and sundowning (worsening confusion in the evening). A structured rest period helps reduce agitation, improves mood, and supports overall functioning. This intervention promotes both safety and comfort. Choice D reason: Limiting fluid intake after the evening meal can lead to dehydration and urinary tract infections. While nighttime incontinence may be a concern, restricting fluids is not recommended because hydration is critical for cognitive and physical health. Instead, toileting schedules and protective measures should be used.