An 82-year-old client with a history of falls is ambulating to the washroom with a walker. The nurse observes the client's gait is unsteady, and they are leaning heavily on the walker. The client states, 'I feel a bit lightheaded.' Which action should the nurse take FIRST to address this situation?

Question: An 82-year-old client with a history of falls is ambulating to the washroom with a walker. The nurse observes the client's gait is unsteady, and they are leaning heavily on the walker. The client states, 'I feel a bit lightheaded.' Which action should the nurse take FIRST to address this situation?

Answer options: ✅ Assist the client back to bed and reassess their vital signs.

• Encourage the client to take deep breaths to alleviate lightheadedness.
• Instruct the client to pause and rest in place before continuing.
• Call another staff member for assistance with ambulation.

Correct answer: Assist the client back to bed and reassess their vital signs.

Explanation: Taking action involves implementing the prioritized solution. Given the client's unsteadiness, lightheadedness, and history of falls, the immediate priority is to ensure safety by stopping ambulation and getting the client back to a safe position to prevent a fall, followed by a reassessment.