Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What is the role of the nurse in ensuring patient safety while awaiting assistance for a confused patient?

1. To leave the room and find help

2. To order the patient to stay still

3. To activate the patient’s call bell

4. To inform the patient's family

The correct answer is: To activate the patient’s call bell

Activating the patient’s call bell is a crucial action for the nurse to take in ensuring patient safety while awaiting assistance for a confused patient. This allows the patient to summon help if needed and provides a means for communication with other staff members who can assist promptly. The call bell is an essential tool in a healthcare setting, enabling patients to alert nurses or other staff in case of emergencies or if they feel unsafe. In the context of a confused patient, maintaining safety is paramount. By ensuring the call bell is activated, the nurse not only empowers the patient but also ensures that help can quickly be summoned without leaving the patient alone and potentially unsafe. This action helps create an environment of care while minimizing the risk of accidents or further confusion. Other actions, such as leaving the room to find help, could increase the risk of the patient wandering or experiencing distress. Ordering the patient to stay still may not be effective, particularly with a confused patient who may not understand the directive. Informing the patient's family may not immediate address the safety concerns and does not provide direct support to the patient in that moment. Therefore, activating the call bell remains the most effective option for ensuring immediate safety and support for a confused patient.