Geriatric Care Flashcards

Which assessment tool is most commonly used by LVNs to evaluate fall risk in elderly patients?

Answer: Morse Fall Scale

The Morse Fall Scale scores patients on factors such as fall history, gait, and IV use to identify those at high risk for falls.

An elderly patient with arthritis is at risk for skin breakdown. Which position change schedule is recommended to prevent pressure injuries?

Answer: Every 2 hours

Repositioning every 2 hours is the standard recommendation to relieve pressure and prevent skin breakdown in immobile patients.

A patient scores 14 on the Braden Scale. What does this indicate?

Answer: Moderate pressure ulcer risk

A Braden Scale score of 13–14 indicates moderate risk; lower scores indicate greater vulnerability to pressure injuries.

Which environmental modification is the most effective first-line intervention to prevent falls in a geriatric unit?

Answer: Ensuring adequate lighting and clear pathways

Adequate lighting and uncluttered pathways reduce tripping hazards and are the safest, most effective environmental fall prevention measures.

An 85-year-old patient has a stage 2 pressure injury on the coccyx. Which wound description matches stage 2?

Answer: Partial-thickness skin loss with a shallow open wound

Stage 2 pressure injuries involve partial-thickness skin loss presenting as a shallow open wound or intact or ruptured blister.

Which footwear instruction should the LVN provide to reduce fall risk in an ambulatory elderly patient?

Answer: Wear well-fitting non-skid footwear at all times when up

Well-fitting non-skid footwear provides traction and stability, directly reducing the risk of slipping and falling.

A nursing home patient is found on the floor. After ensuring safety, what is the LVN's next priority action?

Answer: Assess for injury before moving the patient

The patient must be assessed for injury — especially fractures or head trauma — before being moved to avoid worsening any injuries.