What is a recommended action for a nurse to prevent falls in older adults in a hospital setting?

Ensuring that call lights are within reach and that the bed is locked is a crucial action for preventing falls in older adults in a hospital setting. Older patients may require assistance to get up or move around, and having the call light accessible allows them to summon help easily when needed. This prevents situations where a patient might attempt to stand up unassisted, leading to a greater risk of a fall.

Additionally, ensuring that the bed is locked provides stability when patients are getting in and out of bed. If the bed is not locked, it could move unexpectedly, increasing the danger of a fall. A stable environment created through these measures significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

In contrast, promoting independence without ensuring safety can lead to falls, a cluttered environment increases hazards, and discouraging walking aids removes essential support for those who need assistance moving safely. Therefore, the recommended action focuses on safety measures that directly enable older adults to maintain their well-being.