Which practice supports fall-prevention in a resident's room?

• A. Keep path clear, use non-slip footwear, bed in the low position, bed/chair alarms if used, ensure call light is within reach, assist with transfers
• B. Clutter the path to remind to walk
• C. Keep the bed in the highest position and disable alarms
• D. Skip using non-slip footwear

Answer: (A)

Fall prevention hinges on creating a safe environment and providing timely support for movement. Keeping the path clear removes obstacles that could cause trips or missteps. Non-slip footwear helps the resident maintain traction, reducing the chance of slips on the floor. Lowering the bed to a safe, reachable height minimizes the risk and potential injury if a transfer or casual movement occurs. Using bed or chair alarms when part of the plan can alert staff promptly if a resident tries to get up, enabling intervention before a fall. Ensuring the call light is within reach gives the resident a quick way to request help, reducing the temptation to move independently without assistance. Assisting with transfers ensures proper technique and steady support, further lowering fall risk. In contrast, cluttered paths increase hazards, a high bed and disabled alarms raise the likelihood of a fall, and skipping non-slip footwear removes a basic safeguard against slipping.