A home health nurse is teaching a client about the safe use of crutches. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A - Shower: The presence of a walk-in shower with a shower chair suggests that the client's needs have been considered, and this setup should not present complications.

Choice B - Flooring: The highly polished wood floors are a significant risk for slipping, especially for someone recovering from knee surgery. This type of flooring can be very slippery, particularly if the client is using assistive devices like crutches or a walker.

Choice C - Home Entrance: The front entrance has two steps, but a ramp has been added, and there is sufficient lighting. This adaptation should make the entrance safe for the client.

Choice D - Inside Walking Pathway: The living room's excessive furniture creating narrow pathways can be problematic for the client's mobility and increases the risk of falls or bumping into furniture, which can be dangerous post-surgery.

Choice E - Rugs: Non-secure rugs throughout the house are a tripping hazard. They can easily cause the client to slip or trip, leading to falls.

Choice F - Inside Lighting: The presence of night lights in the hallway and bathroom suggests that inside lighting is adequate and should not present complications.

Choice G - Home Assistance: The client lives with an adult child who is retired, which implies that there is some level

of home assistance available.

Choice H - Toilet: The toilet is elevated, which is beneficial for someone with knee issues as it reduces the strain on the knees when sitting down or standing up.

Choice I - Bedroom Location: The client’s bedroom being on the first floor is advantageous as it eliminates the need to climb stairs.

Choice J - Handrails: The absence of handrails in the bathroom is a safety concern. Handrails provide support and stability, which are crucial for preventing falls in the bathroom, especially post knee surgery.

The correct answer is choice D.

Choice A rationale:

Recommending the client to seek out hospice services rather than seek treatment may not be the best approach. While hospice care is an important aspect of end-of-life care, it is not the nurse’s role to suggest that the client should stop seeking treatment. This decision should be made by the client and their healthcare team.

Choice B rationale:

Initiating topics of conversation that avoid the client’s health status may not be beneficial. While it’s important to respect the client’s wishes if they do not want to discuss their health, it’s also crucial to provide them with the necessary information and support. Avoiding the topic may lead to feelings of isolation or anxiety.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the client’s name and medical condition on an online prayer chain may not be appropriate without the client’s consent. This could potentially breach the client’s privacy. It’s important to discuss with the client and respect their wishes regarding sharing of their personal health information.

Choice D rationale:

Providing quiet time during visits for prayer or meditation can be very beneficial. Spiritual care is a key aspect of holistic care, especially for patients with serious and life-threatening diseases like end-stage breast cancer. It can help to decrease anxiety, depression, and discomfort, and improve the patient’s quality of life. Therefore, this intervention should be included in the plan.