Home health nurse performing safety evaluation, which finding requires action? a. Water heater 130 degrees b. Floors are carpet c. Extension cord extends across floor in living room d. Red light kept on in bedroom at night e. Rubber bath mat on floor outside shower
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is c. Extension cord extends across floor in living room.
Explanation:
When a home health nurse performs a safety evaluation, the goal is to identify any hazards that could increase the risk of injury, especially falls, burns, or other accidents. Let’s review each option carefully:
a. Water heater 130 degrees
- This temperature is actually a safety concern because water above 120°F can cause scald burns, especially in children and older adults. However, 130°F is commonly recommended in some cases for preventing bacterial growth (like Legionella). Still, many guidelines suggest lowering to 120°F for safety. This may require education or action, but it is not the most urgent immediate physical hazard compared to tripping risks.
b. Floors are carpet
- Carpeted floors typically reduce injury risk from falls by providing cushioning and traction. This is generally considered safe or even protective.
c. Extension cord extends across floor in living room
- This is a tripping hazard. Extension cords stretched across walkways can cause falls, especially for elderly or impaired individuals. This requires immediate action, such as rerouting the cord or securing it safely to prevent accidents.
d. Red light kept on in bedroom at night
- Using a dim red light at night can actually promote safety by providing low-level illumination to prevent falls without disrupting sleep patterns. This is not a hazard.
e. Rubber bath mat on floor outside shower
- A rubber bath mat is recommended to prevent slipping when stepping out of the shower. This is a positive safety measure.
Summary:
Among the options, the extension cord across the floor is the most immediate and clear safety hazard requiring action due to its high risk of causing falls, especially in a home health care setting with potentially vulnerable individuals. Falls can lead to serious injury, hospitalization, and loss of independence. The nurse should intervene by suggesting removal, proper placement, or securing of the cord to eliminate the risk.