What is client safety in nursing?
Freedom from injury while providing care and preventing harm.
Which clients are at highest risk for injury?
Older adults, infants, cognitively impaired, and those with mobility or sensory deficits.
What is the nurse’s role in client safety?
Assess risks, implement prevention strategies, and educate clients and families.
What is a fall-risk assessment used for?
To identify clients at risk for falls and guide prevention measures.
When should fall-risk assessments be performed?
On admission and at regular intervals.
What medication effects increase fall risk?
Orthostatic hypotension, dizziness, sedation, and confusion.
Why are older adults at increased risk for falls?
Decreased strength, balance, vision, and slower reflexes.
What environmental factors increase fall risk?
Poor lighting, clutter, wet floors, loose rugs.
What is the priority nursing action to prevent falls?
Identify risk and implement individualized precautions.
Why should the bed be kept in the lowest position?
To reduce injury if a fall occurs.
Why are side rails not always appropriate?
They increase risk of injury and are considered restraints.
What footwear should be provided to prevent falls?
Nonskid footwear.
Why should call lights be kept within reach?
To reduce unassisted ambulation.
What is hourly rounding used for?
To proactively meet needs and prevent falls.
When are bed or chair alarms indicated?
For clients at high risk for unassisted ambulation.
What should be documented after a fall?
Circumstances, assessment, interventions, and provider notification.
What is a seizure?
A sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain.
What is status epilepticus?
A prolonged seizure and medical emergency.
Which clients require seizure precautions?
Clients with a history of generalized seizures or loss of consciousness.
What equipment should be at bedside for seizure precautions?
Oxygen, suction, oral airway, padded side rails.
Why is a saline lock recommended for seizure-risk clients?
Provides immediate IV access.
What should never be placed in a client’s mouth during a seizure?
Any objects except an airway for status epilepticus.
Should a client be restrained during a seizure?
No, restraining increases injury risk.
What is the nurse’s priority during a seizure?
Maintain airway and client safety.
