Which practice can help in the prevention of falls among elderly patients?

Which practice can help in the prevention of falls among elderly patients?

• A. Encouraging independence in all activities
• B. Removing obstacles and providing proper footwear
• C. Assigning beds to the nearest nurse's station
• D. Reducing staff interactions

Answer: (B)

The practice of removing obstacles and providing proper footwear is essential in fall prevention among elderly patients. As individuals age, their balance, strength, and coordination may decline, making them more susceptible to falls. Obstacles in the living or care environment—such as loose rugs, clutter, or improper furniture placement—can significantly increase the risk of tripping. By systematically removing these hazards, healthcare providers can create a safer environment conducive to mobility. Additionally, ensuring that elderly patients wear appropriate footwear—such as non-slip, well-fitting shoes—further enhances their stability and grip on the floor, reducing the chance of slipping or falling. Proper footwear is particularly important because it supports the foot correctly and can minimize the risk of falls caused by foot-related issues. The other strategies, while potentially helpful in various contexts, do not address the immediate environmental and physical risks associated with falls as directly as improving the safety of the surroundings and ensuring the right footwear does.

The practice of removing obstacles and providing proper footwear is essential in fall prevention among elderly patients. As individuals age, their balance, strength, and coordination may decline, making them more susceptible to falls. Obstacles in the living or care environment—such as loose rugs, clutter, or improper furniture placement—can significantly increase the risk of tripping.

By systematically removing these hazards, healthcare providers can create a safer environment conducive to mobility. Additionally, ensuring that elderly patients wear appropriate footwear—such as non-slip, well-fitting shoes—further enhances their stability and grip on the floor, reducing the chance of slipping or falling. Proper footwear is particularly important because it supports the foot correctly and can minimize the risk of falls caused by foot-related issues.

The other strategies, while potentially helpful in various contexts, do not address the immediate environmental and physical risks associated with falls as directly as improving the safety of the surroundings and ensuring the right footwear does.