How is the term “health disparity” best defined?

Choice A reason: Physical status is an important assessment for post-fall prevention, as it can identify the possible causes and consequences of the fall, such as injuries, pain, mobility, balance, strength, vision, hearing, cognition, and medication use. Physical status can also help determine the appropriate interventions and referrals for the older adult, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or home health care.

Choice B reason: Financial status is not an essential assessment for post-fall prevention, as it does not directly affect the risk or outcome of the fall. However, financial status may influence the older adult's access to health care, social support, and assistive devices, which may affect their recovery and quality of life. Financial status may also be a source of stress or anxiety for the older adult, which may impair their mental and emotional well-being.

Choice C reason: Occupational history is not an essential assessment for post-fall prevention, as it does not directly affect the risk or outcome of the fall. However, occupational history may provide some information about the older adult's past and current activities, skills, and interests, which may help tailor the interventions and goals for the older adult. Occupational history may also reflect the older adult's sense of identity, purpose, and satisfaction, which may affect their motivation and engagement.

Choice D reason: Environment is an important assessment for post-fall prevention, as it can identify the potential hazards and barriers that may contribute to the fall, such as poor lighting, slippery floors, clutter, loose rugs, stairs, or furniture. Environment can also help determine the appropriate modifications and adaptations that can reduce the risk of future falls, such as installing grab bars, handrails, ramps, or alarms. Environment can also influence the older adult's comfort, safety, and independence at home or in other settings.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there are two choices that are essential assessments for post-fall prevention.

Choice A reason: A licensed practical nurse is qualified to care for the feet of a client with diabetes is false because foot care for people with diabetes requires specialized training and skills that are beyond the scope of practice of a licensed practical nurse. A registered nurse or a podiatrist should provide foot care for people with diabetes, as they can assess, treat, and prevent foot problems such as ulcers, infections, or nerve damage.

Choice B reason: Onychomycosis is quickly eradicated with antifungal creams or powders is false because onychomycosis, or fungal nail infection, is a stubborn and persistent condition that can take months or years to clear. Antifungal creams or powders are usually not effective for onychomycosis, as they cannot penetrate the nail plate. Oral antifungal medication or laser therapy may be needed to treat onychomycosis.

Choice C reason: Maintaining oral hydration may reduce the incidence of xerosis is true because xerosis, or dry skin, is a common problem for older adults, as their skin produces less oil and moisture. Drinking enough fluids can help hydrate the skin and prevent dryness, itching, cracking, or infection. The recommended fluid intake for older adults is 2400 mL/day, according to the National Council on Aging.

Choice D reason: Ram’s-horn nail should be cut to give a smooth, rounded edge is false because ram’s-horn nail, or onychogryphosis, is a condition where the nail becomes thickened, curved, and distorted. Cutting the nail can be difficult and painful, and may cause bleeding or infection. A podiatrist should trim and file the nail, and treat any underlying causes of the condition.