An older adult's risk for a fall-related injury is directly correlated to his or her ability to regain balance. To evaluate this ability, the nurse assesses the patient's

a. inner ear for possible fluid buildup.
b. musculoskeletal hip, ankle, and shoulder strength.
c. large muscle strength in thighs and upper arms.
d. gait for steadiness.


B
Older adults who lose their balance are able to right themselves to an upright position when the musculoskeletal strength of the hips, ankles, and shoulders is adequate. The inability to regain balance because of insufficient strength can result in a fall. The other options are also possibilities, but they are not as significant as hip, ankle, and shoulder strength.

Nursing

You might also like to view...

The nurse prepares to administer diltiazem (Cardizem LA) to an older adult with ischemic heart disease. When is the optimal time to administer this medication to help prevent complications of heart disease associated with rhythmical variations?

a. Midday c. At breakfast b. At bedtime d. Every 4 hours

Nursing

The following statement best describes which phase of the nurse-patient relationship: "Mr. James, we have reviewed the changes in your diet and insulin dosage to help you improve your HgA1c levels. I would like to see you back in 4 weeks."

a. Orientation phase b. Termination phase c. Interim phase d. Working phase

Nursing

The nurse caring for a patient who will receive penicillin to treat an infection asks the patient about previous drug reactions. The patient reports having had a rash when taking amoxicillin (Amoxil). The nurse will contact the provider to

a. discuss giving a smaller dose of penicillin. b. discuss using erythromycin (E-mycin) instead of penicillin. c. request an order for diphenhydramine (Benadryl). d. suggest that the patient receive cefuroxime (Ceftin).

Nursing

Seizures can be caused by

A) stroke. B) head trauma. C) tumors. D) all of the above

Nursing