During an episode of Meniere's disease, which nursing action helps reduce fall risk?

• A. Assist with ambulation due to fall risk
• B. Encourage bed rest
• C. Promote high-sodium intake
• D. Schedule activities that require rapid movement

Answer: (A)

During a Meniere’s attack, vertigo can be severe and cause a person to lose balance, so the safest approach is to provide direct assistance with walking. By staying with the patient, offering support (such as a gait belt or walker), and ensuring a safe environment, you markedly reduce the risk of a fall during episodes. Other actions don’t address the immediate need to prevent a fall: encouraging bed rest doesn’t reliably prevent falls and can lead to deconditioning; high-sodium intake worsens the condition by promoting fluid retention in the inner ear; and scheduling rapid movements increases the chance of losing balance.