What nursing action can minimize the risk of falls for an elderly patient?

Providing adequate lighting in the patient's room is vital in minimizing the risk of falls for elderly patients. Poor lighting can lead to increased obstacles going unnoticed and reduced visibility, which significantly impacts an elderly person's ability to navigate their environment safely. Falls are particularly concerning in this demographic due to age-related changes in balance, coordination, and visual acuity. Good lighting helps enhance visibility, allowing patients to see potential hazards, such as furniture or other objects, thus reducing the likelihood of falls.

Other options, while they may play a role in overall patient care, do not directly address the immediate environmental risk factors associated with falls as effectively as adequate lighting does. Proper footwear can contribute to safety, but without proper illumination, a patient may still trip or stumble. A high-sodium diet is not relevant to fall prevention and can have negative health implications, particularly for those with hypertension. Restricting fluid intake before bed may prevent nocturia but could lead to dehydration and other complications, further complicating the patient’s overall health rather than directly reducing fall risk.