Evolve HESI Practice Exam

What should be considered when evaluating fall risks for elderly clients?

1. Only the medications being taken.

2. The client's level of physical activity.

3. The interactions among all possible risk factors.

4. The surfaces they walk on in their home.

The correct answer is: The interactions among all possible risk factors.

When evaluating fall risks for elderly clients, it is critical to consider the interactions among all possible risk factors because falls are typically the result of a combination of factors rather than a single cause. This holistic approach allows for a comprehensive assessment that accounts for elements such as the client’s medical history, medication effects, physical activity levels, environmental hazards, sensory deficits, and cognitive function. By examining how these factors may interact, healthcare professionals can identify underlying issues contributing to fall risk and create effective prevention strategies. While factors like medications, physical activity, and home surfaces are important to consider individually, they do not provide a complete picture of the client's fall risk. For example, a client may be active but also taking medications that cause dizziness, or they may have a safe environment but poor vision that puts them at risk. Therefore, focusing solely on individual elements can overlook critical interconnected influences that contribute to falls, emphasizing the importance of a multifaceted assessment.