A patient who is a fall risk is going home alone for more than 4 hours a day. What should they be given before discharge?

The most appropriate action to take for a patient who is a fall risk and will be alone for an extended period is to provide a Phillips Lifeline referral form. This service offers a medical alert system that enables individuals to summon help quickly in the event of a fall or other emergency. Given the patient's risk of falling, it is crucial to ensure that they have a reliable means of communication to receive assistance if needed, especially when they will be alone for over four hours.

This option enhances the patient's safety and promotes their independence while ensuring that help is accessible. The other choices do not offer the same level of support or safety for a patient at risk of falls. For example, while a helmet may offer protection in certain fall situations, it does not address the need for immediate assistance. Likewise, providing contact information, such as a cell number, would not offer timely help in an emergency. Lastly, the suggestion to use briefs stuffed with bathroom tissue is impractical and does not contribute to the patient’s safety or wellbeing during their time alone.