What potential hazard should a nurse identify during an assessment for an older adult client at risk for falls?

When assessing an older adult client at risk for falls, identifying the presence of a compliant chair with wheels is crucial because such furniture can create instability and contribute to falls. Chairs that easily roll can lead to accidents if a client shifts their weight or attempts to stand up without stabilizing themselves first. This can be particularly dangerous for older adults, who may already have balance issues or diminished strength.

In contrast, loose rugs in hallways can also pose a safety hazard; however, they are typically addressed in general environmental assessments and may not be as immediately concerning as the presence of a wheeled chair. Prescription glasses are essential for vision correction; while vision is a critical component in fall risk, the glasses themselves are not a hazard. Handrails being installed is a positive intervention aimed at preventing falls, indicating that safety measures are being considered. Therefore, the compliant chair with wheels represents a direct hazard that should be recognized and mitigated to reduce the risk of falls in older clients.