A nurse is conducting education on urinary incontinence at a senior center. The nurse is discussing lifestyle changes that are associated with an improvement in urinary incontinence. The nurse includes which of the following interventions? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Encouraging the client to use a cane when ambulating is not a cause of concern for the home health nurse, as it is a way of providing support and stability for the client, and preventing falls or injuries.

Choice B reason: Keeping several low wattage night lights on in the evening is not a cause of concern for the home health nurse, as it is a way of improving the visibility and orientation for the client, and reducing the risk of tripping or stumbling in the dark.

Choice C reason: Keeping the side rails up on the client’s bed at night is a cause of concern for the home health nurse, as it is a way of restricting the client’s mobility and increasing the likelihood of entrapment, injury, or death. Side rails can also create a false sense of security and encourage the client to climb over them, which can result in falls or fractures.

Choice D reason: Installing wooden railings on the stairway to the bathroom is not a cause of concern for the home health nurse, as it is a way of enhancing the safety and accessibility for the client, and preventing falls or slips on the stairs.

Choice A reason: Skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage is true because as the skin ages, it loses its elasticity and ability to repair itself from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sun damage can cause wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. The nurse would advise the older adult person to protect their skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen, hats, and clothing that covers the skin.

Choice B reason: Sweat gland activity increases is false because as the skin ages, it produces less sweat and oil, which can make the skin dry and prone to itching. The nurse would advise the older adult person to moisturize their skin regularly and avoid hot showers or baths that can dry out the skin.

Choice C reason: Skin becomes darker in unexposed areas is false because as the skin ages, it produces less melanin, the pigment that gives the skin its color. This can make the skin lighter and more sensitive to sunburn. The nurse would advise the older adult person to check their skin for any changes in color, shape, or size of moles or spots that could indicate skin cancer.

Choice D reason: Generous amounts of soap should be used for cleansing is false because as the skin ages, it becomes thinner and more fragile, and can be irritated by harsh chemicals or fragrances. The nurse would advise the older adult person to use mild, unscented soap and water for cleansing, and to pat the skin dry gently.