A home health nurse is making a home visit to an older adult client. A nurse conducts a home safety assessment and screens the environment for potential hazards for falls. The nurse recommends that the client eliminate which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

A. TRICARE for Life.
Explanation: TRICARE for Life is a health insurance program for military retirees and their dependents. While it may be relevant for veterans, it is not typically available to widowed spouses, especially if they did not serve in the military themselves.

B. Medicaid.
Explanation: Medicaid is a state and federally funded program that provides health coverage to individuals with limited income and resources. In many states, Medicaid can assist in covering the costs not covered by Medicare, including premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Eligibility criteria for Medicaid vary by state, but it often considers income, assets, and medical needs.

C. Medicare Part D.
Explanation: Medicare Part D is the prescription drug coverage program for Medicare beneficiaries. It is not a substitute for supplemental insurance to cover other healthcare costs, and it focuses specifically on prescription medications.

D. Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Explanation: SSI is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to elderly or disabled individuals with limited income and resources. While it can assist with income support, it is not a health insurance program and may not directly cover healthcare costs. Medicaid is often coupled with SSI to provide comprehensive coverage.

A. Defecation less than once each day is not necessarily constipation.

Explanation: The frequency of bowel movements varies among individuals, and defecating less than once each day does not necessarily indicate constipation. Normal bowel habits can differ, and what is considered regular for one person may not be the same for another. Constipation is better assessed by considering other factors such as stool consistency, straining during bowel movements, and feelings of incomplete evacuation.

B. Leaking liquid feces should be treated as diarrhea.

Explanation: Leaking liquid feces may be indicative of diarrhea, but it is not the only factor to consider. The cause of diarrhea should be investigated, and treatment will depend on the underlying reason, which may include infections, medications, or other medical conditions.

C. Mineral oil is recommended as a laxative for the older adult.

Explanation: Mineral oil is generally not recommended as a laxative for older adults. It can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and may have adverse effects. There are other safer and more effective laxative options that healthcare providers may recommend.

D. Excessive sleep can be a symptom of constipation.

Explanation: Excessive sleep is not typically considered a symptom of constipation. Constipation is more commonly associated with symptoms such as infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, and abdominal discomfort. Sleep disturbances may have various causes, but they are not a direct symptom of constipation.