Which of the following statements is true about Parkinson disease (PD)?

Choice A reason: Organize the reperfusion recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) infusion is not the appropriate step, as it is a treatment for acute ischemic stroke, which has not been confirmed in this client. tPA is a clot-busting drug that can restore blood flow to the brain, but it has strict criteria and time window for its use. The nurse should not assume that the client has a stroke without further assessment and diagnosis.

Choice B reason: Determine symptom onset or when the fall occurred is not the appropriate step, as it is not the priority for this client. The nurse should first assess the client's vital signs, neurologic status, and potential injuries from the fall. The symptom onset or fall time may be relevant for the diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause, but it is not the most urgent information to obtain.

Choice C reason: Arrange for a transfer immediately to the radiology department is not the appropriate step, as it is not the most immediate intervention for this client. The nurse should first stabilize the client's condition, perform a thorough assessment, and obtain orders from the medical provider. The radiology department may be needed for diagnostic tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but it is not the first destination for this client.

Choice D reason: Perform a comprehensive neurologic assessment is the appropriate step, as it can help identify the possible cause of the client's balance problem and rule out a stroke or other serious condition. A neurologic assessment includes checking the client's level of consciousness, orientation, speech, cranial nerve function, motor strength, sensory perception, coordination, and reflexes. The nurse should also monitor the client's vital signs, oxygen saturation, and blood glucose levels.

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.