Question

A patient has recently begun mobilizing during the recovery from an ischemic stroke. To protect the patient's safety during mobilization, the nurse should perform what action?

A) Support the patient's full body weight with a waist belt during ambulation.
B) Have a colleague follow the patient closely with a wheelchair.
C) Avoid mobilizing the patient in the early morning or late evening.
D) Ensure that the patient's family members do not participate in mobilization.

Answer 1

To protect the patient's safety during mobilization, the nurse should have a colleague follow the patient closely with a wheelchair. Using a waist belt may restrict the patient's movement and hinder their recovery. Mobilizing the patient in the early morning or late evening does not pose a safety risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

To protect the patient's safety during mobilization, the nurse should have a colleague follow the patient closely with a wheelchair (option B). This ensures that if the patient experiences any difficulties or falls, they can be immediately assisted and supported. Using a waist belt (option A) may restrict the patient's movement and hinder their recovery. Mobilizing the patient in the early morning or late evening (option C) does not pose a safety risk, but it may be beneficial to schedule mobilization at a time when the patient is well-rested and less fatigued. There is no need to exclude family members from participating in mobilization (option D) as their support and presence can promote the patient's emotional well-being and motivation.