A nurse is assisting with teaching a class about motor skills that develop in the first year of life. The nurse should include that which of the following motor skills develops first?

Choice A reason : The term "alert" is an objective finding in the nursing assessment. It refers to the client's level of consciousness and responsiveness to stimuli, which can be directly observed and measured by the nurse during the evaluation. Being alert is a state that is evident through the client's behavior, responses, and interactions.

Choice B reason : "Pacing" is an objective finding. It is a visible behavior that can be observed and documented by the nurse without the need for interpretation or reliance on what the client says. Pacing can be quantified by the number of times the client walks back and forth in a given period.

Choice C reason : "Anxiety" is a subjective finding because it is based on the client's personal feelings and cannot be directly observed or measured by the nurse. It is reported by the client and requires the nurse to rely on the client's expression of their emotional state.

Choice D reason : "Restless" is an objective finding. Restlessness can be observed as physical movements, such as the inability to stay still, fidgeting, or frequent changes in position. These are behaviors that the nurse can see and document.

Choice A reason : Using a cane to ambulate is generally a measure to improve stability and reduce the risk of falling for individuals who may have balance or mobility issues. It is not inherently a risk factor for falls; rather, it is a compensatory strategy to mitigate the risk of falls1.
Choice B reason : Macular degeneration can significantly impact visual acuity and contrast sensitivity, leading to difficulties in navigation and increasing the risk of tripping or misjudging distances. Poor vision is a well-documented risk factor for falls, especially in unfamiliar or complex environments.
Choice C reason : A grab bar in the bathroom is a safety device installed to provide stability and support for individuals while they are using the bathroom facilities. It is a preventive measure against falls and does not increase the risk of falling.
Choice D reason : An electrical cord on the floor over a walkway is a tripping hazard. It is a common home hazard that can cause falls, especially in the elderly or those with mobility and visual impairments78.
Choice E reason : Unsecured throw rugs over tile floors are a recognized fall hazard. They can easily slip underfoot or cause tripping if the edges are not secured, which is particularly dangerous in areas like the kitchen where spills can make the floor even more slippery.