A nurse is caring for a client with cognitive impairment.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take to enhance understanding?

Choice A rationale
Fatigue is a subjective symptom reported by the client. It is based on the client’s personal experience and cannot be objectively measured or observed by the nurse. Therefore, it is not considered objective data.
Choice B rationale
Dizziness is also a subjective symptom reported by the client. It reflects the client’s personal experience and cannot be directly observed or measured by the nurse. As such, it is not considered objective data.
Choice C rationale
Numbness is another subjective symptom reported by the client. It is based on the client’s personal sensation and cannot be objectively measured or observed by the nurse. Therefore, it is not considered objective data.
Choice D rationale
Physical examination results are objective data. They are obtained through direct observation, measurement, and assessment by the nurse. Examples of objective data include vital signs, physical examination findings, and laboratory results. These data are reproducible and can be verified by other healthcare professionals.

Choice A rationale
Encouraging the use of sedatives to promote better sleep is incorrect. Sedatives can increase the risk of falls in older adults due to their side effects, such as dizziness and impaired coordination. It is important to use non-pharmacological methods to promote sleep and reduce fall risk.
Choice B rationale
Removing tripping hazards from the home is a key action to reduce falls in older adults. This includes securing loose rugs, keeping walkways clear, and ensuring that cords and other objects are not in areas where they could cause a trip. By creating a safer environment, the risk of falls is significantly reduced.
Choice C rationale
Ensuring proper lighting in all areas of the home is also important for fall prevention. Adequate lighting helps older adults see potential hazards and navigate their environment safely. This includes using nightlights in hallways and bathrooms and ensuring that all rooms are well-lit.
Choice D rationale
Avoiding the use of diuretics at night can help reduce the need for nighttime bathroom trips, which can be a fall risk. However, this choice alone is not as comprehensive as removing tripping hazards, which addresses multiple potential fall risks in the home.