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

Choice A rationale:

Airborne transmission typically involves smaller particles that can remain suspended in the air for longer periods. Sneezing, in this case, usually produces smaller droplets that can travel farther distances and potentially infect individuals beyond a few feet away.

Choice B rationale:

Direct contact transmission occurs when there is physical contact between an infected person and a susceptible individual. In this scenario, the infected drainage from the client's wound directly touches the nurse's cut, leading to infection. This type of transmission is characterized by the transfer of microorganisms through physical touch or contact with the skin.

Choice C rationale:

Droplet contact transmission involves larger respiratory droplets that are expelled when a person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets typically do not travel far and can only infect people who are in close proximity. In this case, the scenario describes a client coughing on their hand and another person becoming infected by touching the contaminated door handle. This aligns with direct contact transmission rather than droplet contact transmission.

Choice D rationale:

Indirect contact transmission refers to the transfer of an infectious agent from a contaminated surface or object to a susceptible person. However, the scenario provided does not involve the nurse coming into contact with a contaminated surface but rather with the infected drainage directly. Therefore, this scenario is best categorized under direct contact transmission.

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.