Medical-Surgical Nursing: Assistive Device Fall Prevention Practice Questions
Test yourself on Assistive Device Fall Prevention with 12 original NCLEX-RN practice questions. Pick an answer to see instant feedback and a full explanation.
Free original practice questions for study purposes. Open Exam Prep is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the makers of NCLEX-RN.
advertisement
Answer the questions below — you get instant feedback and a full explanation for each.
1. The nurse is reinforcing fall-prevention teaching for a client using a front-wheeled walker. Which client action requires correction?
Explanation. A walker should stay close enough to support an upright posture. Reaching toward a walker that is too far ahead shifts the center of gravity and increases fall risk.
2. A client with left-sided weakness is learning to use a cane for fall prevention. Which statement shows correct understanding?
Explanation. A cane is commonly held on the stronger side and advanced with the weaker leg to improve stability. Technique should match the prescribed therapy plan.
3. The nurse observes a client preparing to transfer from a wheelchair to bed. Which finding is the priority fall risk?
Explanation. Unlocked wheelchair brakes can allow the chair to roll away during a transfer. Brakes should be locked before standing, pivoting, or sitting.
4. A client using crutches reports tingling in the hands and soreness under the arms. Which instruction is most appropriate?
Explanation. Crutch users should support weight through the hands, not the axillae. Pressure under the arms can compress nerves and blood vessels and can also destabilize gait.
5. Which home setup best reduces fall risk for a client using an assistive device?
Explanation. Assistive devices need clear, well-lit paths with minimal trip hazards. Loose rugs, cords, and high storage increase fall risk.
6. The nurse is teaching safe stair technique to a client prescribed a cane. Which instruction is safest to reinforce?
Explanation. Stair technique should follow the prescribed therapy sequence, commonly using a handrail when available. Rushing or practicing alone increases fall risk.
7. A client with a rolling walker is about to sit in a chair. Which action indicates safe technique?
Explanation. Before sitting, the client should feel the chair behind the legs, use stable support such as chair arms as taught, and lower slowly. Pulling on the walker can make it tip.
8. Which footwear choice best supports fall prevention for a client using a walker?
Explanation. Well-fitting nonskid footwear improves traction and reduces tripping. Loose slippers, socks on slick floors, and untied laces increase fall risk.
9. A client becomes dizzy while ambulating with a walker in the hallway. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
Explanation. Dizziness during ambulation is a fall warning sign. The priority is to stop safely, support the client, sit if possible, and assess before resuming activity.
10. The nurse reviews a client's medication list before gait training with an assistive device. Which medication effect is most relevant to fall prevention teaching?
Explanation. Sedation, dizziness, and orthostatic blood pressure changes can increase fall risk. Clients may need slow position changes and symptom awareness during mobility practice.
11. A client using a walker says, "I keep one hand on the walker and carry my drink in the other hand." Which response is best?
Explanation. Both hands should be available to control the walker unless the care plan provides an adapted method. Carrying items in one hand can reduce stability and attention.
12. Which discharge statement best indicates readiness to use an assistive device safely at home?
Explanation. Readiness includes demonstration, hazard awareness, correct fit and use, and knowing when to seek help. Device names alone do not show safe use.
📘 Want a full structured course and official-style practice tests? Browse top-rated NCLEX-RN prep books and courses. Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
advertisement
FAQ
What assistive device fall prevention topics are high yield for NCLEX med-surg?
High-yield topics include walker placement, cane side and sequence, crutch axillary pressure, wheelchair brake use, safe transfers, footwear, clear pathways, stair safety, dizziness during ambulation, and medication-related fall risk.
How should I prioritize assistive device safety questions?
Prioritize immediate fall hazards first: unlocked brakes, dizziness, leaning or reaching, device misuse, unstable footwear, cluttered paths, and unsafe transfer technique. Then reinforce teaching and referral to therapy as appropriate.
Are these assistive device questions clinical advice?
No. These are original NCLEX-style study questions for exam preparation only. Actual mobility plans, device fitting, and patient care decisions require licensed clinicians and local protocols.