A home health nurse is making a home visit to an older adult client. A nurse conducts a home safety assessment and screens the environment for potential hazards for falls. The nurse recommends that the client eliminate which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

A. Encouraging the client to use a cane when ambulating.

Explanation: Encouraging the use of a cane for ambulation can provide support and stability, aiding in fall prevention.

B. Keeping the side rails up on the client's bed at night.

Explanation: Keeping side rails up on the client's bed can pose a concern as it may increase the risk of entrapment and injury. Side rails can lead to accidental entrapment, and there is a potential for the client to try to climb over them, leading to falls or injuries. The use of side rails in older adults is a safety consideration that requires careful assessment and appropriate measures to prevent harm.

C. Keeping several low wattage night lights on in the evening.

Explanation: Using low wattage night lights is a good practice to enhance visibility and prevent tripping or stumbling in low-light conditions.

D. Installing wooden railings on the stairway to the bathroom.

Explanation: Installing railings on the stairway is a proactive measure to enhance safety and stability, especially in navigating stairs, and can contribute to fall prevention.

A. Driving in heavy traffic is fine as long as it is not raining.
Explanation: Driving in heavy traffic can pose challenges for individuals, especially those who may experience age-related changes in vision, reaction time, and cognitive function. The recommendation is to avoid heavy traffic, especially if it might increase stress and the likelihood of accidents.

B. If you have a passenger, you may drive at any time of the day.
Explanation: The presence of a passenger does not necessarily eliminate the potential challenges associated with age-related changes in driving abilities. It is important for older individuals to consider factors such as time of day, visibility, and overall driving conditions.

C. Limit driving to familiar places close to home.
Explanation: Limiting driving to familiar places close to home is a safer practice for older individuals who may face challenges with vision, reaction time, and other factors that can impact driving. Familiar routes are more likely to be navigated confidently, reducing the risk of getting lost or encountering unexpected challenges.

D. Playing music will help keep you alert.
Explanation: While playing music can be enjoyable, it may not be an effective strategy for maintaining alertness, especially during challenging driving conditions. The focus should be on adopting safe driving habits and minimizing distractions to ensure overall safety on the road.