The public health nurse conducts a program at the community senior citizen center about preventing falls at home. Which statement made by a participant indicates that further education is needed? A)"I bought a new nightlight for the hallway to the bathroom." B)"I feel so much more secure wearing my electronic fall alert device." C)"I walk in my stockings at home because it helps to relieve my bunion pain." D)"My daughter helped me secure the small, thin rug in my kitchen with strong tape."

Question

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 out of 3 adults aged >65 experience a fall every year. Walking barefoot or while wearing stockings increases the risk of slipping on slick surfaces. Shoes or slippers with non-skid soles should be worn inside and outside of the home. There are multiple simple strategies that can help reduce falls in the home environment and these include: Exercising regularly for 30 minutes 3 times/week increases strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility; therefore, decreasing fall risk. Maintaining a well-lit, clutter-free environment (eg, adding nightlights and removing or securing area rugs to the floor with double-sided tape) (Options A and D). Using grab bars and non-skid bath mats in the bathroom. Wearing shoes or slippers with non-skid soles, both inside and outside of the home. Periodically reviewing medications and side effects (eg, orthostatic hypotension) with a pharmacist and/or health care provider (HCP). Getting regular vision exams. Wearing an electronic fall alert device. The fear of falling increases fall risk and these devices provide the security of knowing help is available immediately if a fall occurs (Option B). Educational objective: Many falls in the home can be prevented by exercising regularly, getting regular vision exams, maintaining a well-lit, clutter-free environment, using grab bars in the bathroom, periodically reviewing medications and side effects with a pharmacist and/or HCP, and wearing an electronic fall alert device.

The Public Health Nurse Conducts a Program at the Community