CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyMedium
A nurse aide notices a resident's bed is in the highest position after transferring the resident back into bed. What should the aide do to reduce fall risk?
- ALower the bed to its lowest position and lock the wheels
- BLeave the bed high so staff can assess the resident easily
- CAsk the resident to lower the bed themselves later
- DRaise all four side rails and leave the bed high
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Lower the bed to its lowest position and lock the wheels
After completing care, the bed should be returned to its lowest position with wheels locked to reduce the risk of injury if the resident falls or rolls out of bed. This is a core fall-prevention practice.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A high bed increases fall injury risk when the resident is not being actively cared for.
- C. Safety responsibility belongs to staff, not the resident, immediately after care.
- D. Raising all side rails can be considered a restraint and does not address bed height risk.
Fall Prevention: Bed Position
Beds should be kept in the lowest position with wheels locked whenever the resident is not receiving direct care, to reduce fall injury risk.
- Lowest position reduces injury severity from falls
- Wheels must always be locked
- Call light within reach after every care task
Memory trick: Low bed, locked wheels, light within reach