During a shift on a residential memory care unit, a practical nurse (PN) is tasked with maintaining a secure environment and mitigating risks for several vulnerable residents. Which of the following interventions should the PN implement to prevent accidents, errors, or injuries? Select all that apply.
- Placing a weight-sensitive bed alarm mat under a resident who frequently attempts to ambulate unassisted.Answer
- BApplying bilateral soft wrist restraints to a confused resident pulling at a dressing, before trying diversionary activities.
- CDelegating the initial assessment of a resident's swallowing ability to an assistive personnel before providing water.
- Removing decorative throw rugs and scattered personal items from the pathway between the beds and the bathrooms.Answer
- EVerifying a sleeping resident's identity by checking the room number on the door before administering scheduled oral medications.
- Ensuring a dim nightlight remains on for residents who experience severe spatial disorientation when waking up in total darkness.Answer
Answer
The correct interventions are placing a weight-sensitive bed alarm mat, removing decorative throw rugs and clutter, and ensuring a dim nightlight remains on.
The correct choices prioritize proactive client safety through least restrictive measures, environmental hazard reduction, and proper clinical judgment. Utilizing bed alarms and nightlights are highly effective, non-restrictive strategies to prevent falls in confused or disoriented clients. Removing environmental hazards like throw rugs directly eliminates tripping risks. These actions adhere to national safety goals and standard nursing protocols.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Accident, Error, and Injury Prevention in vulnerable populations requires strict adherence to environmental safety, medication verification rights, and the prioritization of least restrictive interventions.