What is a CNA's role in preventing falls?

A CNA plays a crucial role in fall prevention by assessing risk factors and ensuring that pathways are clear. This involves observing residents for any potential hazards that could contribute to falls, such as loose carpeting, clutter, or inadequate lighting. By identifying these risk factors, a CNA can take proactive measures to reduce them, such as rearranging furniture or ensuring that assistive devices are within reach. Keeping pathways clear is vital, as it allows residents to move safely around their environment.

In addition, assessing risk factors includes being aware of individual residents' needs, such as their mobility limitations or medications that may affect their balance. The CNA's constant observation and interaction with the residents enable them to create a safer living environment and implement strategies tailored to each individual's risk profile. This hands-on approach is vital in reducing the incidence of falls, which can lead to serious injuries and complicated recovery processes for residents.

The other options do not align with best practices in fall prevention. While encouraging independence is important, it should be done with safety measures in place rather than as a primary means of preventing falls. Limiting mobility entirely can lead to disadvantages in physical health and psychological well-being. Discouraging the use of assistive devices can also increase the likelihood of falls by not providing residents