Final answer:
The correct practice when making a surgical bed for a patient returning from surgery is to leave the bed in the lowest position after making it, to prevent falls and allow easy accessibility for the patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
When making a surgical bed for a patient returning from surgery, it is important to ensure that the bed is safe, comfortable, and accessible for the patient. A complete linen change is typically needed due to the sterile requirements post-surgery. After the bed is made, leaving the bed in the lowest position is critical to prevent falls or accidents when the patient attempts to get in or out of the bed. Therefore, the correct answer is B. After making the bed, leave the bed in the lowest position.
This practice provides safety and reduces the risk of injury. Additionally, while it is a good practice to leave one bed rail up to assist the patient in adjusting their position, it is essential to also consider a patient's immediate post-operative condition before deciding on the position of the bed rails. Lastly, attaching the signal light to the bed allows the patient to easily call for assistance, which promotes patient safety and communication with the healthcare staff.