What should you do if you find a patient on the floor?

When a nurse aide finds a patient on the floor, the appropriate action is to check for injuries and then notify the nurse immediately. This approach is critical for several reasons.

First, assessing the patient for injuries ensures that any potential harm is identified right away. Patients can suffer from various injuries after a fall, such as fractures or head injuries, which may not always be immediately apparent. By checking for injuries first, the nurse aide can determine whether the patient needs urgent medical attention.

Next, informing the nurse is equally important. The nurse is responsible for evaluating the patient’s condition and deciding on the appropriate course of action based on their training and expertise. They may need to conduct further assessments or provide treatment depending on the situation.

This method promotes the safety and well-being of the patient, adheres to the protocols of medical care, and ensures that qualified personnel are involved in managing the situation rather than acting solely on an aide's judgment. Additionally, taking such steps also helps prevent further injury to the patient and ensures a proper record of the incident is maintained for future reference.

The other options would not provide adequate care or attention to the safety of the patient. For instance, leaving the patient alone could worsen their condition, assuming they are fine disregards the