A nurse is implementing the CDC STEADI fall-prevention initiative for community-dwelling older adults. Which interventions are evidence-based components of fall prevention? Select all that apply.
Select All That Apply
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
STEADI fall-prevention bundle: TUG test (> 12 sec = increased risk), medication review and deprescribing of high-risk drugs, evidence-based balance/strength exercise (tai chi reduces falls 20-30%), vitamin D repletion if deficient, vision/footwear optimization, home safety assessment. Choice 3 is wrong — home modifications (grab bars, lighting, removing throw rugs, raised toilet seats) are a core STEADI intervention; they REDUCE falls, not increase confusion.
STEADI is the CDC framework most likely to appear on NCLEX. Memorize: SCREEN (TUG, ask about falls), ASSESS (gait, meds, vision, postural BP, vitamin D, home), INTERVENE (deprescribe, exercise, supplement, modify home, refer PT). The "home modification confuses the elderly" trap is wrong on every level.
72-year-old at outpatient wellness visit; no recent falls but unsteady gait noted. The clinic uses the CDC STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths and Injuries) toolkit for fall prevention.
STEADI — CDC initiative for fall prevention in community-dwelling older adults — Screen, Assess, Intervene.
Timed Up and Go (TUG) — Patient stands from a chair, walks 3 m, turns, returns and sits; > 12 seconds suggests fall risk.
High-risk fall medications — Benzodiazepines, anticholinergics, sedating antihistamines, certain antipsychotics, polypharmacy, antihypertensives with orthostasis.