Pressure ulcers are defined as an injury to the skin and/or underlying tissue resulting from pressure or in combination with shear, usually over a bony prominence. As a nurse, what do you know you must do to prevent pressure ulcers? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Asking about the circumstances behind the fall(s) can help you identify the possible risk factors and causes of the fall(s), such as environmental hazards, medications, chronic conditions, or acute illnesses. Asking about the circumstances can also help you determine the severity and urgency of the situation, and whether the client needs further evaluation or referral.

Choice B reason: Assessing for any injuries the client might have is important, but it is not the first thing you should do after a client reports a fall. You should first ask about the circumstances to rule out any life-threatening or serious injuries that may require immediate attention. Assessing for injuries is part of the comprehensive fall risk assessment that should be done after the initial screening.

Choice C reason: Evaluating the client for gait and balance is also important, but it is not the first thing you should do after a client reports a fall. You should first ask about the circumstances to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may affect the client's gait and balance. Evaluating gait and balance is part of the comprehensive fall risk assessment that should be done after the initial screening.

Choice D reason: Asking about the history or frequency of falls can help you assess the client's fall risk and identify any patterns or trends in the client's fall history. Asking about the history or frequency of falls can also help you tailor the appropriate interventions and prevention strategies for the client.

Choice A reason: Raises all four side rails is not the best intervention, as it may not prevent the client from falling and may increase the risk of injury and entrapment. Raising all four side rails may also be considered a form of restraint, which should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.

Choice B reason: Orders a two-person assist with a transfer is not the best intervention, as it may not be appropriate for the client's level of mobility and may reduce the client's independence and self-esteem. The nurse should assess the client's ability to transfer and use the appropriate assistive device and number of staff to ensure safety and comfort.

Choice C reason: Gives the client a dry erase board is the best intervention, as it can facilitate the client's communication and expression of needs and preferences. The client may have difficulty speaking or writing due to the stroke, which can affect the language and motor areas of the brain. A dry erase board can allow the client to use simple words, symbols, or drawings to convey their messages.

Choice D reason: May need to incorporate repetition is not the best intervention, as it is not specific and may not be effective for the client's learning and retention. The nurse should use individualized and evidence-based strategies to teach the client and their family about the stroke, its effects, and the rehabilitation plan. Repetition may be one of the strategies, but not the only one.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that is the best intervention for the nurse to implement when caring for this client.