CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyMedium
A nurse aide is completing a fall risk assessment for a newly admitted resident. Which action is most important to reduce the resident's risk of falling during the night?
- APlacing the call light within the resident's reach
- BTurning off the room light completely for privacy
- CKeeping personal items on a high shelf to reduce clutter
- DLocking the wheelchair brakes only during the day
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Placing the call light within the resident's reach
Placing the call light within reach ensures the resident can request assistance instead of attempting to get up alone, which is a key fall prevention strategy. Nighttime falls often occur when residents try to reach the bathroom or retrieve items without help.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Incorrect; complete darkness increases fall risk by reducing visibility.
- C. Incorrect; items should be within reach, not on high shelves, to avoid unsafe reaching.
- D. Incorrect; wheelchair brakes should be locked at all times when not in use, not just during the day.
Fall Prevention: Call Light Access
Keeping the call light within a resident's reach allows them to request help rather than attempt unsafe movement alone.
- Call light should always be within reach
- Reduces attempts at unassisted transfers
- Part of comprehensive fall risk reduction plan
Memory trick: A light within reach means less chance of a fall breach.