A nurse is performing an abdominal assessment as part of a client’s comprehensive physical examination. Which of the following is the final step the nurse should perform?

Choice A reason: Contacting a family member weekly does not directly address fall prevention for a senior living alone. While social support is valuable, it does not mitigate physical fall risks like environmental hazards. This response fails to provide practical safety measures, making it inadequate for the client’s concern.
Choice B reason: Suggesting a move to a skilled nursing facility is extreme and dismisses the client’s autonomy to remain at home. Many seniors can live safely with modifications like grab bars or assistive devices. This response does not address immediate fall prevention strategies, making it inappropriate and overly restrictive.
Choice C reason: Having an unlicensed assistive person stay daily is impractical and costly for fall prevention. It does not address environmental hazards, the primary cause of falls. Home modifications and assistive devices are more effective and sustainable, making this response less appropriate than environmental safety measures.
Choice D reason: Installing grab bars and removing loose rugs directly reduces fall risks by improving stability and eliminating tripping hazards. These evidence-based modifications are effective for seniors living alone, enhancing safety without compromising independence. This response addresses the client’s fear with practical, actionable solutions, making it correct.

Choice A reason: Financial power of attorney manages monetary decisions, not health care, unless specified as a health care surrogate. Advance directives guide health decisions, but this role is distinct, making this statement incorrect under the Patient Self-Determination Act’s provisions.
Choice B reason: The Patient Self-Determination Act ensures clients’ rights to refuse treatment, even against provider recommendations, promoting autonomy through advance directives. This legal protection applies in Medicare/Medicaid facilities, making it the correct principle for end-of-life decision-making in this context.
Choice C reason: Advance directives can be changed by a competent client, even if notarized, as the Act supports ongoing autonomy. Stating they cannot be altered is incorrect, as flexibility is a core feature, making this an inaccurate representation of the law.
Choice D reason: The eldest adult child cannot change advance directives unless designated as a surrogate. The Act prioritizes the client’s documented wishes or appointed decision-maker, not family hierarchy, making this statement incorrect and misaligned with legal requirements.