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Safety & Falls

Risk factors for resident accidents include:

From CNA Exam Ohio Questions

Answer choices

  1. A older persons are very flexible
  2. B older persons still recognize dangerous situations
  3. C changes in vision and hearing
  4. D safe use of mobility equipment

Correct answer: C. changes in vision and hearing

Clinical Rationale

Changes in vision and hearing are risk factors for resident accidents.

As individuals age, they often experience declines in sensory perceptions, particularly vision and hearing, which can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Diminished sensory abilities can lead to misjudgments about hazards and impair the ability to respond to dangerous situations effectively.

A) Older persons are very flexible

Flexibility generally decreases with age, as joints and muscles can become stiffer. This decline in flexibility can contribute to a higher risk of falls and accidents, making this statement incorrect in the context of risk factors for resident accidents.

B) Older persons still recognize dangerous situations

While many older adults retain the ability to recognize danger, cognitive decline in some individuals may impair this awareness. Moreover, even if recognition is present, the impaired sensory capabilities of older individuals can hinder their ability to respond promptly to threats, making this choice misleading as a risk factor.

C) Changes in vision and hearing

Declines in vision and hearing are well-documented aspects of aging that can lead to an increased likelihood of accidents. Poor vision can prevent individuals from seeing obstacles, while hearing loss can limit their ability to hear warnings or traffic sounds, making this choice a definitive risk factor.

D) Safe use of mobility equipment

While safe use of mobility equipment is crucial for preventing accidents, it is not inherently a risk factor. Instead, it can be a protective factor that mitigates the risk of accidents when used correctly. Therefore, this choice does not directly relate to inherent risks associated with aging.

Conclusion

Understanding risk factors for resident accidents is essential for safeguarding older individuals. Changes in vision and hearing greatly contribute to increased accident risk due to impaired perception and response abilities. In contrast, misconceptions about flexibility and recognition of danger, as well as the role of mobility equipment, highlight the importance of addressing sensory declines to enhance safety among older adults.

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