Problem:
Mr. J is an 88 year old Hispanic Male patient who lives alone on the second floor of a 4 story home. Mr. J admits to a history of multiple falls. He walks with an unsteady gait, and although a walker has been prescribed for use with ambulation, Mr. J states: "I really only use it when my daughter stops by." Mr. J does not have a PERS unit. He wears a hearing aid in the left ear which "needs a new battery", and eyeglasses that are for distance and reading. A nurse has been assigned to evaluate the safety of Mr. J's home environment; the following is the report of the evaluation. There are 5 steps to enter Mr. J's building, but there are no handrails on either side of the steps. The entrance hallway has only 1 light that is dimly lit. The apartment opens to a small entranceway, with the kitchen area to the left. The kitchen appears to be cluttered: there are groceries all over the kitchen counters, along with plates and cups. The sink is full of dirty dishes and utensils; there is a soiled scatter rug on the floor by the kitchen sink.