Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test

What safety precaution should be taken when a patient has decreased level of consciousness?

1. Provide frequent orientation and reminders

2. Keep the side rails down

3. Limit visitors to reduce confusion

4. Maintain a low bed position

The correct answer is: Maintain a low bed position

Maintaining a low bed position is a critical safety precaution for patients with a decreased level of consciousness. This approach helps to minimize the risk of injury from falls, which is a significant concern in such cases. By keeping the bed low, should the patient attempt to get up or roll out of bed, the potential for a severe injury is reduced, as the height of the fall is lessened. This precaution reflects an understanding of the patient's altered state and potential inability to navigate their environment safely. Given that patients may not have full awareness of their surroundings or may be disoriented, their risk for unintentional movement and falls increases significantly. Keeping the bed in a low position is a proactive measure that helps safeguard their physical well-being during recovery. The other options, while they may have some merit in specific contexts, do not directly address the immediate risk of falls in patients with a decreased level of consciousness.