What is an important principle to follow regarding bedside rails?

When considering bedside rails, positioning the bed in the lowest position when side rails are used is crucial for patient safety. This practice minimizes the risk of injury if a patient attempts to get out of bed or falls. Keeping the bed low helps ensure that even if a patient does slip or fall, the distance to the floor is reduced, which can significantly minimize the potential for serious injuries.

Moreover, maintaining a low bed position can serve as an additional safety measure for confused or disoriented patients who may not be able to assess their spatial surroundings accurately. This principle is aligned with a fundamental aspect of patient care: ensuring the environment is as safe as possible, particularly for individuals who may be at higher risk for falls.

Using side rails improperly, such as leaving them down constantly or only using them at certain times, might create a false sense of security or lead to potential hazards. It's essential to ensure that the side rails, when used, must correspond with the bed height to effectively enhance safety.