A confused patient was found wandering in the hallways several times during the shift.What is the most appropriate nursing intervention to prevent a fall by this patient?

A) Reassigning the patient to a room closer to the nursing station
B) Using an electronic monitor that sounds an alarm when the patient reaches a near-vertical position
C) Raising two or four side rails
D) Placing wrist restraint on the patient during the nighttime hours of sleep

Alarm devices warn nursing staff that a patient is attempting to leave a bed or chair unassisted.There are a variety of types,including a device with a knee band that sounds an alarm when the patient reaches a near-vertical position.An infrared type of alarm is affixed to a headboard or bed frame,allowing a patient to move freely within a bed.If a patient tries to leave the bed,the infrared beam detects motion and sends out an alarm tone.Moving the patient to a room closer to the nursing station does not solve the problem.Raising side rails has the potential to trap parts of the patient's body,producing a hazard.The use of side rails alone for a disoriented patient often causes more confusion and further injury.Restraints are not a solution to a patient problem,but a temporary means to patient safety.Restraints are a last resort to prevent injury.