A nurse is preparing to administer warfarin to a client who has chronic atrial fibrillation. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor prior to administering the medication?

Choice A Reason:

Older adults are at increased risk for falls due to decreased vision, balance issues, and decreased reaction time. Placing white or brightly colored tape on the edges of stairs enhances visibility, reducing the risk of missteps and falls.

Choice B Reason:

Placing area rugs on wooden floors is not appropriate. Area rugs on wooden floors can pose a tripping hazard, especially for older adults who might have mobility issues. They can easily slip or trip on loose rugs. Securing rugs with non-slip backing or removing them entirely is a better safety measure.

Choice C Reason:

Running wires and cords under carpeting is not appropriate. Running wires and cords under carpeting can create tripping hazards and increase the risk of electrical issues, including potential overheating and fire hazards. It's safer to secure cords along walls or use cord covers to prevent tripping and reduce potential electrical hazards

Choice D Reason:

Heating systems should be inspected annually to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards. An annual inspection is recommended, especially for older adults who may have impaired smell or cognition, making them less likely to detect gas leaks or heating malfunctions.

Choice A Reason:

Temperature 37.3°C (99.1°F) is incorrect . While a slightly elevated temperature can sometimes accompany an infection, it's not specific to a bladder infection and might not be present in all cases.

Choice B Reason:

Changed mental status is incorrect. Bladder infections or urinary tract infections (UTIs) in older adults can often present with atypical symptoms, and changes in mental status or acute confusion are common indicators in this population. UTIs can cause subtle but significant alterations in mental function, particularly in the elderly, leading to confusion, agitation, or cognitive impairment.

Choice C Reason:

WBC count 9,000/mm3 (5000 to 10,000/mm3) is incorrect .A WBC count within the normal range doesn't necessarily rule out or confirm a bladder infection. In some cases, UTIs might not significantly elevate the white blood cell count, especially in localized infections.

Choice D Reason:

Diminished reflexes is incorrect . Diminished reflexes are not typically associated with a bladder infection. They might indicate other neurological or muscular issues but are not a common sign of a UTI.