Which safety measure might be specified by the care plan to reduce fall risk when leaving a room?

• A. Wheels unlocked
• B. Side rails up if ordered
• C. Bed in high position
• D. Call light placed out of reach

Answer: (B)

Protecting a resident from falls as they prepare to leave a room often involves giving them or staff a stable, reachable way to get help and a physical barrier to unexpected movements. Keeping side rails up when there is an order provides a protective boundary at the edge of the bed and gives the resident something solid to hold onto while transferring or standing. This reduces the chance of sliding, rolling, or tipping out of bed during attempts to leave the room and makes it safer for staff to assist.

Unrestricted wheels, a bed kept in a high position, or a call light placed out of reach all increase fall risk in this moment. Wheels that can move allow the bed or furniture to shift unexpectedly; a high bed makes stepping down more hazardous; and a call light out of reach prevents timely help if the person feels faint or needs assistance.