The gerontological nurse collaborates with the wound care team about an older client who has an ulcer. How is this nurse demonstrating leadership in the care of older people?

Choice A: Use an antifungal cleanser daily. This is not a correct answer. Antifungal cleansers are not recommended for treating fungal infections, as they can irritate the skin and disrupt the natural balance of the skin flora¹. Antifungal cleansers may also reduce the effectiveness of other antifungal medications².

Choice B: Eliminate the conditions that created the problem. This is a correct answer. Fungal infections are often caused by factors that create a favorable environment for fungi to grow, such as moisture, warmth, poor hygiene, or weakened immunity³. Eliminating these conditions can help prevent or treat fungal infections by reducing the fungal load and restoring the skin barrier.

Choice C: Thoroughly clean and dry skin daily. This is also a correct answer. Cleaning and drying the skin daily can help remove dirt, sweat, and dead skin cells that can harbor fungi and cause infections. Drying the skin well, especially in the folds and creases, can also prevent moisture buildup that can promote fungal growth.

Choice D: Apply 4x4 dressings to the affected site.This is not a correct answer. Applying dressings to the affected site can trap moisture and heat, which can worsen fungal infections. Dressings may also interfere with the absorption of topical antifungal medications. Dressings are only indicated for fungal infections that cause open wounds or ulcers, and they should be changed frequently and kept clean and dry..

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.