Question

5. A nurse is caring for an older adult patient who has undergone a total hip replacement. What is the best action to reduce the risk of further injury?

a. Leave all the lights on in the room at night.
b. Leave the side rails down at all times to enable the patient to get to the bathroom quickly.
c. Keep the call bell and other frequently used items in easy reach.
d. Keep the bed in the high position to discourage the patient from getting out of bed without assistance.

Answer 1

The best action to reduce the risk of further injury for an older adult patient who has undergone a total hip replacement is to keep the call bell and other frequently used items in easy reach.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best action to reduce the risk of further injury for an older adult patient who has undergone a total hip replacement is to keep the call bell and other frequently used items in easy reach.

By having the call bell and frequently used items within easy reach, the patient can communicate their needs and have their needs met promptly without having to strain or risk injury by reaching too far. This helps to minimize the potential complications and risks that can arise from immobility during the healing process.

Additionally, keeping the lights on in the room at night can help prevent falls, while keeping the bed in the high position can discourage the patient from getting out of bed without assistance.