A nurse is reinforcing teaching about environmental modifications in the home with a family member of a client who has Alzheimer's disease. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A Reason;
"You should consume small, frequent meals each day." This statement is advisable for COPD management. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent bloating or feeling overly full, which might interfere with breathing due to increased pressure on the diaphragm.
Choice B Reason:
"You should decrease your caloric intake by 200 calories per day." While maintaining a healthy weight is important for COPD management, reducing caloric intake without specific guidance or assessment might not be suitable. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian for individualized dietary recommendations.
Choice C Reason:
"You should increase your oxygen to 5 liters per minute if you have shortness of breath." Adjusting oxygen flow should be done based on a healthcare provider's prescribed guidelines. Self-adjustment of oxygen flow without medical advice can be risky and might not address the underlying cause of shortness of breath during a COPD exacerbation.
Choice D Reason:
"You should discontinue your prednisone when your symptoms improve." Prednisone or other corticosteroids are often prescribed during a COPD exacerbation to reduce inflammation in the airways. However, discontinuing corticosteroids abruptly without a healthcare provider's guidance can lead to a recurrence of symptoms or potential complications. It's important to follow the prescribed regimen and complete the course as directed.

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.