The nurse is caring for an older adult client who is at risk for falls. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

Answer: c. History of previous falls. Explanation: A history of previous falls is a significant risk factor for future falls. Clients who have fallen before are more likely to fall again, making it a high-risk factor to consider in fall prevention strategies.

Incorrect choices: a. Age over 65 years is a general risk factor for falls but does not provide as much predictive value as a history of previous falls. b. Use of anticoagulant medications increases the risk of bleeding but does not necessarily indicate a higher risk for falls. d. Presence of sensory deficits, such as visual or auditory impairments, can contribute to fall risk but may not be the highest-risk factor compared to a history of previous falls.

d. Ensuring the client has adequate lighting in the room.

Answer: b. Encouraging the client to use the call bell for assistance. Explanation: Encouraging the client to use the call bell for assistance is the most important intervention for fall prevention. It promotes the client's involvement in their own safety and ensures that help is readily available when needed.

Incorrect choices: a. Placing a sign on the client's room door indicating fall risk is a helpful visual reminder, but it does not actively prevent falls. c. Providing a nonskid mat on the floor beside the client's bed can reduce the risk of slipping but does not address other factors that contribute to falls. d. Ensuring the client has adequate lighting in the room is important for preventing falls, but it is not the most critical intervention. The client's ability to seek assistance when needed is more crucial.