Answer :
Final answer:
The true statement about the use of side rails is that they should not be raised unless it is part of the patient's care plan. Side rails are situational protective measures and their use should be carefully documented and individualized according to patient needs.The correct answer is option c.
Explanation:
The correct statement regarding the use of side rails is c) the side rails should not be raised unless stated in a patient's care plan.
It's essential to follow the healthcare provider's or care plan’s specific recommendations when it comes to using side rails for a patient's bed. Side rails can be a protective measure for patients who are at risk of falling out of bed, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The use of bed rails must be individualized based on the patient's condition, mobility, and risk factors, and documented in the care plan. The decision to use side rails should be made collaboratively with the patient, their family, and the healthcare provider. It should also comply with safety regulations to avoid cases of entrapment or injury. Especially with infants, the focus remains on reducing the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), and following safe sleep recommendations, such as placing infants on their backs to sleep, ensuring there are no suffocation hazards, and avoiding overheating.
