A home health nurse is assessing an older adult client’s home after providing teaching about home safety. Which of the following actions by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. The client covers electrical cords with a throw rug: This action is unsafe. Placing a throw rug over electrical cords poses a fire hazard and could lead to tripping. Electrical cords should be secured and kept out of walkways to prevent accidents.

B. The client set the water heater to 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit): The water heater should be set to a maximum temperature of 49°C (120°F) to prevent scalding injuries, which are a concern for older adults whose skin may be more sensitive. Temperatures higher than this increase the risk of burns.

C. The client has the refrigerator set to 7.2 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit): This temperature is too high. A refrigerator should be set at or below 4°C (40°F) to properly preserve food and prevent bacterial growth. Setting the refrigerator to 7.2°C (45°F) can result in foodborne illnesses.

D. The client has a standard height toilet seat in the bathroom: This may be inadequate for older adults, particularly those with mobility issues. A raised toilet seat may be recommended for better comfort and safety, as it reduces the risk of falls while sitting down or standing up.

A. Continue the medication dosages that relieve the client’s pain:
Opioids and benzodiazepines are commonly used for pain and anxiety management in terminally ill patients. Somnolence is an expected side effect and does not necessarily warrant withholding medication unless the client shows signs of respiratory depression.

B. Contact the provider about replacing the opioid with an NSAID: NSAIDs are not sufficient for severe pain in terminal illness. Opioids are the gold standard for palliative pain management, and switching to an NSAID would likely lead to uncontrolled pain and unnecessary suffering.

C. Administer the benzodiazepine but withhold the opioid: This would leave the client in severe pain, which is unethical in hospice care. Pain relief should not be withheld solely due to sedation.

D. Withhold the benzodiazepine but continue the opioid: Benzodiazepines are often used to relieve anxiety, dyspnea, and agitation in end-of-life care. Withholding it could cause increased distress for the client. Instead of discontinuing the medication, the nurse should monitor for respiratory depression and adjust doses only if necessary.