During a home health visit for an elderly client who had a brain attack three months ago, which home hazard should the nurse identify?

• A. A cluttered kitchen with open countertops
• B. Numerous scatter rugs throughout the house
• C. Non-slip bath mats
• D. Handrails on all stairs

Answer: (B)

In elderly patients recovering from a brain event, preventing falls is a top safety goal at home. Numerous scatter rugs create the highest risk because they can shift, fold, or slide under the feet, causing trips and slips. After a stroke, balance and gait are often impaired, and slower reactions make it harder to recover from a stumble, so loose rugs dramatically increase the chance of a fall. By comparison, non-slip bath mats are actually protective, handrails on stairs provide support, and a cluttered kitchen, while hazardous, does not pose the same immediate, surface-based fall risk as multiple loose rugs. The key is removing or securing loose rugs and ensuring clear, dry walking paths with good lighting and support options.