A nurse is developing a discharge plan for a client who is postoperative and will require a wheelchair in the home. The nurse should place a referral to which of the following resources to assist the client with this need?

a. Review current literature regarding client falls:

This option involves conducting a review of existing research and literature on client falls. Reviewing current literature can provide valuable insights into evidence-based practices and interventions for fall prevention. However, conducting a literature review typically follows problem identification and is part of the process of developing an evidence-based approach to addressing the issue.

b. Implement a fall prevention plan:

Implementing a fall prevention plan involves putting in place strategies and interventions aimed at reducing the risk of falls among clients. While implementing a fall prevention plan is an essential step in addressing the issue, it should be based on a thorough assessment of clients at risk for falls (which comes before planning interventions) to ensure that interventions are targeted and effective.

c. Identify clients who are at risk for falls:

This is the most appropriate first step in the quality improvement process. Identifying clients who are at risk for falls allows healthcare providers to focus interventions on those who are most vulnerable. It involves conducting comprehensive assessments, considering factors such as age, mobility, cognitive status, medications, and history of falls, to determine individual risk levels.

d. Notify staff of the increased fall rate:

While communication with staff about the increased fall rate is important for raising awareness and promoting a culture of safety, it should not be the first action taken in the quality improvement process. Before notifying staff, it's essential to identify clients at risk for falls and develop targeted interventions to address the issue effectively.

a. Store opened bottles of normal saline in a refrigerator for up to 48 hours:

Incorrect. Once opened, bottles of normal saline should generally be used within a short time frame (typically 24 hours) and should not be stored for extended periods to prevent contamination. This practice could lead to infection risks and is not recommended as a cost-containment measure.

b. Wait to dispose of sharps containers until they are completely full:

Incorrect. Overfilling sharps containers increases the risk of needle-stick injuries and potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Sharps containers should be disposed of when they are about three-quarters full to maintain safety.

c. Use clean gloves rather than sterile gloves for colostomy care:

Correct. For colostomy care, clean gloves are generally sufficient as it is a clean procedure, not a sterile one. Using clean gloves instead of sterile gloves reduces costs without compromising patient safety.

d. Return unused supplies from the bedside to the unit’s supply stock:

Incorrect. Returning unused supplies to the general supply stock can pose a risk of cross-contamination and infection. Once supplies have been brought to a patient's bedside, they are considered contaminated and should not be returned to the supply area.