A night shift nurse works and cares for several clients at risk for falls.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

The correct answer is A. Instruct the clients to use the call light.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing clients to use the call light ensures they can request assistance before getting up, which is a key strategy in preventing falls, especially during the night when visibility is reduced and the risk of disorientation is higher.

Choice B rationale:

Keeping the clients' rooms dark can increase the risk of falls as it makes it difficult for clients to see obstacles and navigate their environment safely. Adequate lighting is important for fall prevention.

Choice C rationale:

Moving overbed tables away from the bed can actually make it harder for clients to reach essential items and might increase the risk of falls if clients have to stretch or lean awkwardly to get what they need. The overbed table should be positioned within easy reach.

Choice D rationale:

Performing client checks every 4 hours is not frequent enough to effectively monitor at-risk clients. More frequent checks, such as hourly, are recommended to ensure safety and promptly address any needs that could prevent a fall.