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?

Rationale:

A. Place the client upright on a donut-shaped cushion: Donut-shaped cushions are not recommended because they create uneven pressure distribution, which can worsen ischemia around pressure points rather than relieve it, potentially delaying healing.

B. Teach the client to shift his weight every 15 min while sitting: Frequent weight shifting relieves pressure on the ischial area and promotes circulation, helping to prevent progression of a stage 1 pressure injury. This intervention supports client independence and tissue integrity.

C. Assess pressure points every 24 hr: Pressure points should be assessed more frequently than once daily, especially in high-risk clients. Routine skin assessments at least once per shift are critical for early detection of pressure injury progression.

D. Turn and reposition the client every 3 hr while in bed: The standard recommendation is to reposition immobile clients at least every 2 hours in bed to redistribute pressure and reduce the risk of further skin breakdown. Extending intervals increases risk of injury.

Rationale:

A. Provide a quiet environment for the client: Minimizing noise and stimulation helps reduce stress and prevents spikes in intracranial pressure (ICP). A calm environment is essential for neurologically compromised clients.

B. Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe: Coughing can increase thoracic pressure and, consequently, ICP. In clients with elevated ICP, activities that increase intrathoracic or intra-abdominal pressure should be avoided to prevent worsening brain injury.

C. Obtain client vital signs every 8 hr: Clients with increased ICP require frequent monitoring, often hourly or every 2–4 hours, to detect changes in neurologic status or signs of Cushing's triad. Every 8 hours is insufficient for early intervention.

D. Maintain the head of the bed at a 30 degree angle: Elevating the head promotes venous outflow from the brain without compromising perfusion. A 30-degree elevation is a commonly recommended position to help control ICP levels.

E. Administer stool softeners to the client: Straining during bowel movements increases intra-abdominal pressure and can elevate ICP. Stool softeners reduce this risk and are a supportive intervention in the management of increased ICP.