Final answer:
Moving the gurney backwards when a patient is on it can help reduce anxiety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is TRUE. Moving the gurney backwards when a patient is on it can help reduce anxiety. By facing away from the direction of movement, the patient cannot see where they are going, which can be disorienting and increase feelings of anxiety. This is especially true in situations where the patient may be going into an unfamiliar or intimidating environment, such as a surgical room or the emergency department.
The act of moving backwards on the gurney also provides a sense of control to the patient. They can see the familiar environment they are leaving behind, rather than facing the uncertainty of what lies ahead.
This approach is commonly used in healthcare settings to prioritize patient comfort and reduce stress and anxiety during transportation.