A nurse is planning to assist a client who has left-sided weakness to ambulate using a gait belt. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Choice A rationale:

Large pieces of furniture do not necessarily create a significant risk for falls unless they are poorly placed or obstructing pathways. While they can potentially cause accidents, the likelihood of tripping over them is generally lower compared to other hazards.

Choice B rationale:

A bedside table next to the bed is not a significant fall risk factor. In fact, having a bedside table can be beneficial for the client, as it provides a convenient surface for placing items that the client might need during the night.

Choice C rationale:

Raised toilet seats, although they may pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues, are typically installed to aid those with difficulty sitting down or standing up. They are not a primary risk factor for falls, especially when compared to other more hazardous factors.

Choice D rationale:

Throw rugs on hardwood floors are a significant fall risk factor, especially for older adults or individuals with mobility problems. The rugs can easily shift or bunch up, causing someone to trip and fall. Hardwood floors can also become slippery, and the combination of a throw rug on such a surface increases the risk of accidents. The rationale behind this choice is grounded in the potential for tripping and slipping hazards that these throw rugs can introduce, especially in individuals who might already have balance or mobility issues.

The correct answer is C.

Choice A reason: Walking on the client’s right side is incorrect because the nurse should walk on the client’s left side. This is the weaker side and the side where support is most needed.

Choice B reason: Instructing the client to look down at their feet when ambulating is incorrect because the client should be instructed to look straight ahead, not down at their feet, to maintain balance and prevent falls.

Choice C reason: Have the client sit on the side of the bed for at least 60 seconds before ambulating. This allows the nurse to assess the client’s tolerance and readiness for ambulation, and it helps prevent dizziness or fainting due to orthostatic hypotension.

Choice D reason: Placing the gait belt securely around the client’s lower chest is incorrect because the gait belt should be placed around the client’s waist, not the lower chest. This provides a secure grip for the nurse and allows for safer ambulation.