A charge nurse is observing a newly licensed nurse care for a client who is at risk for falls. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a risk factor for falls?

Choice A reason: HbA1c or glycated hemoglobin is a measure of average blood glucose levels over the past 2 to 3 months. A lower HbA1c indicates better glycemic control and a lower risk of diabetes complications. The target HbA1c for most people with diabetes mellitus is less than 7%.

Choice B reason: HbA1c 12.5% is very high and indicates poor glycemic control and a high risk of diabetes complications, such as retinopathy, nephropathy, or neuropathy.

Choice C reason: Fasting blood glucose 100 mg/dL is within the normal range of 70 to 99 mg/dL and indicates normal glucose metabolism, but it does not reflect the long-term control of blood glucose levels over the past 3 months.

Choice D reason: Fasting blood glucose 70 mg/dL is at the lower end of the normal range and may indicate hypoglycemia or low blood glucose levels, which can cause symptoms such as sweating, trembling, hunger, or confusion.

Choice A: This is incorrect because feeling bloated after the procedure is not a reason to call the doctor. Feeling bloated after a colonoscopy is normal due to air being introduced into the colon during the procedure. The client can relieve bloating by passing gas or walking.

Choice B: This is correct because making arrangements for a ride home indicates an understanding of the procedure. The client will receive sedation during a colonoscopy, which can impair their judgment and coordination. The client should not drive or operate machinery until fully recovered from sedation.

Choice C: This is incorrect because eating a light breakfast the morning of the procedure indicates a lack of understanding of the procedure. The client should have nothing by mouth after midnight before a colonoscopy, unless instructed otherwise by the provider. The client should follow a clear liquid diet and take bowel preparation agents as prescribed before the procedure.

Choice D: This is incorrect because having a sore throat from the breathing tube indicates a lack of understanding of the procedure. The client will not have a breathing tube during a colonoscopy, as it does not involve intubation or ventilation. The client may have a mouth guard or bite block to protect their teeth and prevent biting on the endoscope.