A patient at risk for falls has non-skid socks and a bed alarm. Which intervention most effectively reduces fall risk?

• A. Keep the bed in the lowest position, raise side rails, and ensure the call light is within reach.
• B. Remove bed rails entirely.
• C. Keep bed high and call light out of reach.
• D. Non-slip socks only.

Answer: (C)

Reducing fall risk comes from minimizing danger and ensuring help is easy to get. Keeping the bed in the lowest possible position lowers the height from which a fall could occur, reducing potential injury. Having the call light within reach allows the patient to summon assistance promptly before attempting to move. Using side rails appropriately provides a protective barrier to help prevent a bed exit, while non-slip socks improve footing but aren’t a substitute for assistance. A high bed or call light placed out of reach increases fall risk, and removing rails eliminates a key safety measure. So the most effective approach is a low bed, rails used as appropriate, and the call light easy to access, with non-slip socks and the bed alarm serving as helpful supports.