A home health nurse is completing a fall-risk assessment for an 84-year-old woman who lives alone and had a minor fall in her bathroom last week. The client uses a cane occasionally and states her bathroom rug 'tends to slide around.' What is the priority safety teaching the nurse should provide to reduce this client's risk of a future fall?
- Remove or secure loose throw rugs with non-slip backing throughout the home.
- Encourage the client to walk quickly between rooms to minimize time spent standing.
- Suggest the client discontinue cane use since it can be a tripping hazard.
- Advise the client to keep the lights dim in the evening to reduce eye strain.