A nurse is caring for a client and realizes they have administered the wrong medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Use surveillance to investigate outbreaks of foodborne illness. Investigating outbreaks falls under the assessment function of public health, which involves monitoring and identifying health problems within the community through data collection and analysis.

B. Monitor the incidence rates of varicella every 2 months. Tracking disease incidence is part of the assessment function, as it involves ongoing surveillance to detect trends and potential public health concerns. This data helps in planning and evaluating interventions but does not directly ensure service delivery.

C. Organize an immunization clinic for at-risk members of the community. Assurance involves ensuring that essential public health services are available and accessible. Organizing an immunization clinic directly provides a critical health service to protect vulnerable populations, making it an example of the assurance function.

D. Educate the community about the health risks of alcohol use. Providing health education aligns with the policy development function, which focuses on informing and empowering the community to make healthier choices through laws, regulations, and initiatives.

A. Loud volume of the television set. While a loud television may indicate hearing impairment, it does not pose an immediate safety risk. The nurse should assess the client’s hearing and provide recommendations if needed, but addressing environmental hazards that increase the risk of falls takes priority.

B. Wall-to-wall carpet in the living room. Unlike loose rugs, wall-to-wall carpeting reduces the risk of tripping and slipping. It provides better traction for walking, making it a safer flooring option for older adults compared to hard surfaces or throw rugs.

C. Low chairs without armrests. Low chairs make it difficult for older adults to stand up, increasing the risk of falls. The absence of armrests further reduces stability and support when rising from a seated position. Recommending higher chairs with armrests can enhance mobility and prevent injuries.

D. Use of indirect lighting. Soft, indirect lighting can help reduce glare and improve comfort, but it may not necessarily create safety concerns. However, inadequate lighting in critical areas, such as hallways or staircases, should be assessed to prevent falls.