A nurse has just completed assessment charging on the electronic record for an assigned client. An assistive personnel who just measured the client’s vital signs asks to chart them while the nurse is still logged into the record. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a. Review current literature regarding client falls:

This option involves conducting a review of existing research and literature on client falls. Reviewing current literature can provide valuable insights into evidence-based practices and interventions for fall prevention. However, conducting a literature review typically follows problem identification and is part of the process of developing an evidence-based approach to addressing the issue.

b. Implement a fall prevention plan:

Implementing a fall prevention plan involves putting in place strategies and interventions aimed at reducing the risk of falls among clients. While implementing a fall prevention plan is an essential step in addressing the issue, it should be based on a thorough assessment of clients at risk for falls (which comes before planning interventions) to ensure that interventions are targeted and effective.

c. Identify clients who are at risk for falls:

This is the most appropriate first step in the quality improvement process. Identifying clients who are at risk for falls allows healthcare providers to focus interventions on those who are most vulnerable. It involves conducting comprehensive assessments, considering factors such as age, mobility, cognitive status, medications, and history of falls, to determine individual risk levels.

d. Notify staff of the increased fall rate:

While communication with staff about the increased fall rate is important for raising awareness and promoting a culture of safety, it should not be the first action taken in the quality improvement process. Before notifying staff, it's essential to identify clients at risk for falls and develop targeted interventions to address the issue effectively.

a. Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists focus on helping clients develop, recover, or maintain daily living and work skills. They can assist with adapting the home environment for safety and independence but do not typically arrange for durable medical equipment like wheelchairs.

b. Social services: Correct. Social services can help coordinate the provision of durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs. They can assist with arranging the delivery of the equipment, addressing insurance or financial concerns, and connecting the client with community resources and support services.

c. Home health: Home health services can provide ongoing medical care and assistance at home, but they do not typically handle the logistics of securing durable medical equipment like wheelchairs. They might recommend or facilitate a referral to social services for this need.

d. Physical therapy: Physical therapists help clients regain strength and mobility and may train clients on how to use a wheelchair effectively, but they do not typically arrange for the provision of the wheelchair itself.