A client smoking in his bathroom has dropped a cigarette butt into wastepaper basket, which begins to smolder. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

A) Focusing on helping patients be disease free: The World Health Organization (WHO) definition of health goes beyond the absence of disease. It emphasizes the complete state of physical, mental, and social well-being, rather than simply the absence of illness. Focusing solely on being disease-free does not align with this holistic view of health.

B) Providing care that involves the whole person: This is the correct approach in line with the WHO definition of health. WHO defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Therefore, the nurse should focus on addressing all aspects of a person’s health, including emotional, social, and physical needs, to promote overall well-being.

C) Assuring that care is strictly personal in nature: While personal care is important, the WHO definition of health emphasizes a broader, more holistic approach that incorporates physical, mental, and social aspects of health, not just personal care. It’s about treating the whole person in context, including their environment and social relationships.

D) Directing focus only on the pathological state: The WHO definition moves beyond just focusing on the pathological (disease) state and emphasizes wellness in all aspects of life. While addressing medical issues is important, focusing solely on pathology ignores the broader concept of health that includes mental and social well-being.

A) Place the bedside table within the client's reach: This is an important safety measure to help prevent falls. By ensuring that the bedside table is within easy reach, the client will be less likely to try to reach for objects outside their immediate area, reducing the risk of falls from overextending or getting up unnecessarily.

B) Teach balance and strengthening exercises: Teaching balance and strengthening exercises is a key preventative measure for older adults at risk for falls. These exercises help improve muscle strength, coordination, and stability, which can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls.

C) Provide information about home safety checks: Providing information about home safety is essential to prevent falls in older adults. This includes advising the patient on eliminating hazards (like loose rugs, clutter, or inadequate lighting) and ensuring that the home environment is conducive to safety. A home safety check is part of creating a fall-prevention strategy.

D) Administer sedative at bedtime: Administering sedatives to older adults, especially those at risk for falls, can increase the likelihood of confusion, dizziness, or impaired coordination, which can lead to falls. This is not a recommended intervention. Non-pharmacologic methods for improving sleep hygiene should be prioritized over sedative medications when possible.

E) Lock beds and wheelchairs when not providing care: Locking beds and wheelchairs when not in use is a fundamental safety measure to prevent accidental movement of the bed or wheelchair. This action reduces the risk of the patient falling out of bed or from a wheelchair if they try to move or shift positions.