The health care provider has not ordered the use of a restraint for an alert patient at high risk for falling. The nurse should implement which side rail use?

A. Semiprivate room.

Explanation: Medicare can cover the cost of a semiprivate room during a qualifying hospital stay or skilled nursing facility stay.

B. Hospice care.

Explanation: Medicare provides coverage for hospice care for individuals with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of six months or less.

C. Custodial care.

Explanation: Custodial care, which involves assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, is generally not covered by Medicare. Medicare primarily covers medically necessary and skilled care, such as hospital stays, certain nursing home stays, hospice care, and some home health care services. Custodial care, which focuses on assistance with routine personal care, is considered non-medical and is typically not covered by Medicare.

D. Skilled care.

Explanation: Medicare covers skilled care, including services provided by healthcare professionals such as nurses and therapists, when deemed medically necessary. Skilled care is typically required to improve or maintain a person's condition.

A. Four-length rails.

Explanation: Four-length rails fully enclose the bed and can be considered a more restrictive measure. They may be used when a restraint order is in place, but for an alert patient without such an order, less restrictive alternatives are preferred.

B. One-length rail.

Explanation: Using one-length rails can be a less restrictive alternative when a patient is at high risk for falling. The use of one side rail allows for some protection against falls without fully restraining the patient. This approach helps maintain the patient's mobility and autonomy while still providing a safety measure.

C. Two full-length rails.

Explanation: While using two full-length rails is less restrictive than four-length rails, it is still more restrictive than using only one side rail. The goal is to balance fall prevention with the patient's autonomy.

D. No side rails.

Explanation: Using no side rails may not provide adequate protection for an alert patient at high risk for falling. While avoiding restraints is essential, implementing at least one side rail is a reasonable compromise to enhance safety without fully restricting the patient's movement.