A nurse explains to a client that it is important to slowly change positions to diminish or eliminate the symptoms of what?

The correct answer is choice C: Move any clients to safety.

Choice C rationale: The nurse's priority is always client safety. In the event of an electrical issue that poses a potential risk, such as smoke or fire, the nurse should first ensure that any clients in the area are moved to a safe location. This aligns with the widely-used RACE acronym for fire response (Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish), which highlights the importance of removing individuals from danger before attending to other aspects of fire safety.

Choice A rationale: Using a fire extinguisher is an appropriate action to take when dealing with a small, manageable fire. However, in this scenario, ensuring client safety takes precedence over attempting to extinguish the source of the smoke. This is also in line with the RACE mnemonic, which emphasizes the importance of prioritizing evacuation.

Choice B rationale: Activating the fire alarm is an important step to alert others in the building about a potential fire and the need for evacuation. However, the priority remains client safety, so moving clients to a safe location should be the nurse's initial response, following the RACE acronym.

In summary, the nurse's priority action when encountering an electrical hazard is to move clients to safety. After ensuring client safety, the nurse can then activate the fire alarm and, if trained to do so, use a fire extinguisher on the outlet if necessary. This approach aligns with the RACE mnemonic, which serves as a guideline for fire response.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the clients to use the call light is an important action to prevent falls. If the clients need assistance or have to leave their beds, they should use the call light to alert the nurse or healthcare provider. Prompt response to call lights can prevent clients from attempting to move on their own and potentially falling.

Choice B rationale:

Keeping the clients' rooms dark is not a safe practice, especially for clients at risk for falls. Dim lighting can increase the risk of tripping or falling, especially during nighttime when visibility is already reduced. Adequate lighting in the clients' rooms is essential to ensure their safety.

Choice C rationale:

Moving overbed tables away from the bed is crucial in preventing falls. Overbed tables can obstruct the clients' movement, leading to accidents. By keeping the area around the bed clear, the clients have more space to maneuver safely, reducing the risk of falls.

Choice D rationale:

Performing client checks every 4 hours is a good practice, but it is not sufficient for clients at high risk for falls, especially during the night shift when they may need assistance to use the bathroom or move in bed. Frequent checks and availability to assist clients promptly are essential to prevent falls effectively.