The nurse is teaching a newly admitted client about fall prevention. The nurse understands that which of the following interventions can help prevent client falls?

Select all that apply.
  1. keep personal articles within reach
  2. explain the use of the call light system
  3. keep the bed in the lowest position with all side rails up
  4. dim the room lights so that the client can get adequate rest
  5. remind the client to call for assistance when getting out of bed
Numbers 1, 2, and 5 are correct.
Rationale: Keeping personal articles within reach minimizes the risk of the client leaning out of bed to retrieve items. The client must understand how to use the call button, and the nurse should secure it to the bed within easy reach. The nurse should remind the client to call for assistance when he needs to get up and before he has an urgent need to go to the restroom. Some clients wait until they need to use the restroom and then try to hurry out of bed, increasing the risk of falls. Use of all four bed rails is a form of restraint, and agency policy should be followed regarding their use. Dimming the room lights makes it more difficult to see and increases the fall risk. Use of safety lights under the bed or nightlights reduces the risk of falls.