A nurse is teaching a client who can only bear weight on one leg how to ambulate using crutches. Which of the following crutch gaits should the nurse plan to instruct the client to use?

A. "I need to set my hot water heater to 140 degrees Fahrenheit":
This statement is incorrect. The recommended safe temperature for a hot water heater is generally set to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) to prevent scalds and burns. A setting of 140 degrees Fahrenheit increases the risk of burns, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
B. "I will use the grab bars when getting in and out of the bathtub":
This statement indicates an understanding of the importance of using safety features, such as grab bars, to prevent falls in the bathroom. Using grab bars provides support and stability during activities like getting in and out of the bathtub, reducing the risk of accidents.
C. "I will apply tape over frayed areas of electrical cords":
This statement is incorrect. Using tape on frayed electrical cords is not a safe or effective solution. Frayed cords should be replaced to avoid the risk of electrical shock or fire. Using tape may not adequately address the underlying safety issue and can be a hazard itself.
D. "I need to check my medications for expiration dates":
This statement reflects an understanding of the importance of medication safety. Checking medication expiration dates is crucial to ensure the efficacy and safety of the medications. Expired medications may be less effective or potentially harmful.
E. "I need to have a fire escape plan with my family":
This statement shows awareness of the importance of having a fire escape plan at home. Having a plan in place helps ensure that everyone in the household knows what to do in case of a fire, improving overall safety.

A. Elevate full-length side rails on both sides of the client's bed:

While side rails are used to prevent falls, full-length side rails can pose a risk to the client. They may give a false sense of security, and there's a risk of entrapment or injury if the client tries to climb over them. The use of side rails requires careful assessment and consideration of the individual client's needs.

B. Place the bedside table 0.9 m (3 feet) away from the bed:

Placing the bedside table 0.9 m (3 feet) away from the bed may not directly address the risk of falls. The focus should be on making essential items easily accessible to the client to minimize the need for them to get out of bed, especially during the night. Placing items within the client's reach is a more practical approach.

C. Keep the client's room temperature at 18°C (64.4°F):

While maintaining a comfortable room temperature is important for the client's overall well-being, it is not a direct preventive measure for falls. Falls are more likely to be prevented by addressing environmental factors, ensuring clear pathways, and providing adequate lighting.

D. Provide the client with a night light:

This is the appropriate action. A night light helps improve visibility during nighttime, reducing the risk of falls. It allows the client to see their surroundings better and navigate the room safely if they need to get out of bed.