For a patient with limited mobility, what action optimizes access to nursing staff?

• A. Rely on staff to send a call bell when needed
• B. Wait for visitors to alert staff
• C. Place a call bell within reach
• D. Post a note on the door to request help

Answer: (C)

Having the call bell within reach is essential for someone with limited mobility because it gives the patient direct and immediate control to summon nursing staff. This supports safety, comfort, and timely care, since help can be requested at once without depending on someone else to notice or act. Relying on staff to send a call, waiting for visitors to alert staff, or leaving a note on the door all introduce delays and rely on others, which can compromise the patient’s needs. The call bell within reach is the quickest, most reliable way for the patient to request assistance when needed.