Which of the following should the nurse include in her teaching plan to address home safety for an older adult client? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A) Wear socks when walking around the home: Wearing socks, especially if they have smooth soles, can increase the risk of slipping on hard surfaces. Non-slip footwear is recommended for preventing falls. Therefore, recommending socks for walking may not address the safety concerns effectively. B) Install grab bars in the bathtub: Installing grab bars in the bathtub is a crucial safety measure for preventing falls and providing support for older adults while bathing. This helps reduce the risk of slips and injuries in a common high-risk area for falls. C) Secure rugs with adhesive tape: Securing rugs with adhesive tape helps prevent them from slipping, which can significantly reduce the risk of tripping and falling. Loose or unsecured rugs are common hazards in the home environment. D) Use nightlights along stairways and walkways: Using nightlights along stairways and walkways improves visibility and helps prevent falls during the night. Adequate lighting is essential for older adults to navigate their homes safely. E) Install handrails on both sides of all stairways: Installing handrails on both sides of stairways provides additional support and stability, which is particularly important for older adults to prevent falls while using stairs. This enhancement helps ensure safer navigation of stairs.