Answer choices
- A Call for help
- B Check for bleeding
- C Ask the resident to try moving arms and legs
- D Find out what nurse aide is assigned to the resident
Correct answer: C. Ask the resident to try moving arms and legs
Clinical Rationale
Ask the resident to try moving arms and legs.
After witnessing a fall, it is crucial for the nurse aide to assess the resident's mobility and potential injuries. Asking the resident to move their arms and legs can help determine if there are any immediate concerns such as fractures or limitations in movement.
A) Call for help
While it is important to seek assistance promptly in emergency situations, the immediate priority after a fall is to assess the resident's condition and potential injuries. Calling for help should follow the initial assessment of the resident's immediate needs.
B) Check for bleeding
Although checking for bleeding is essential in assessing injuries post-fall, the primary concern should be evaluating the resident's mobility and ensuring they can move their limbs without difficulty or pain. Bleeding can be addressed once the resident's immediate physical state is determined.
C) Ask the resident to try moving arms and legs
This choice is the correct answer. Assessing the resident's ability to move their arms and legs helps in identifying any potential musculoskeletal injuries and assessing the extent of their mobility post-fall. This action aids in determining the appropriate next steps for care.
D) Find out what nurse aide is assigned to the resident
While knowing the assigned nurse aide is important for coordinating care, it is not the immediate action required after a resident falls. The focus should be on evaluating the resident's condition and ensuring their safety and well-being before addressing staffing assignments.
Conclusion
In situations where a resident falls, the priority for the nurse aide is to assess the resident's immediate condition and potential injuries. Asking the resident to move their arms and legs assists in this assessment process, allowing for a quick evaluation of mobility and any possible musculoskeletal issues that may require immediate attention.