The nurse is implementing interventions to reduce the number of falls in the health care facility.
What action is best for the nurse to implement?

Choice B rationale:

Isometric exercises involve contracting muscles without changing the length of the muscle or joint angle. In this case, squeezing the gluteal muscles tightly constitutes an isometric exercise. Isometric exercises are often used in rehabilitation settings to strengthen specific muscle groups without putting too much strain on the joints.

Choice A rationale:

Option A describes a range of motion exercise involving the wrist, which is not an isometric exercise. Isometric exercises focus on static muscle contractions, not dynamic movements like circular motions.

Choice C rationale:

Lifting a 5-pound weight to increase arm strength involves isotonic exercise, not isometric exercise. Isotonic exercises involve muscle contractions with movement and changing muscle length, unlike isometric exercises, where muscle length remains constant.

Choice D rationale:

Bending the knee up to the chest is an example of a range of motion exercise and does not constitute an isometric exercise. Range of motion exercises involve moving joints through their full extent, but isometric exercises involve static muscle contractions without joint movement.

Choice A rationale:

Restrain the patient with a chemical sedative. Rationale: Restraints, especially chemical sedatives, should be avoided whenever possible due to the risk of complications and patient distress. Restraints can lead to decreased mobility, increased agitation, and other adverse effects. They should only be used as a last resort and with appropriate justification, such as ensuring patient or staff safety in emergency situations.

Choice B rationale:

Encourage the patient to use grab bars located near toilets and showers. Rationale: Installing grab bars in bathrooms helps prevent falls by providing support and stability for patients, especially those with mobility issues. Encouraging their use promotes patient independence and safety while performing essential activities of daily living.

Choice C rationale:

Place the call light within the patient's reach. Rationale: Placing the call light within the patient's reach ensures that the patient can easily summon assistance when needed. Prompt response to patient requests can prevent accidents and falls by addressing the patient's needs in a timely manner.

Choice D rationale:

Conduct rounds every four hours. Rationale: Conducting regular rounds allows healthcare providers to assess the patient's condition, address their needs, and identify potential fall risks. However, the specific frequency of rounds may vary based on the patient's condition and the healthcare facility's policies. Some patients may require more frequent monitoring, especially if they are at a higher risk of falling.

Choice E rationale:

Apply brakes on wheelchairs and beds. Rationale: Applying brakes on wheelchairs and beds prevents unintended movement, enhancing patient safety and reducing the risk of falls. It ensures that the patient's mobility aids remain stationary, providing stability when the patient is transferring or repositioning.