If a patient who has been on bed rest feels dizzy when sitting up, what should the aide do?

The appropriate action when a patient who has been on bed rest feels dizzy upon sitting up is to support the patient in a sitting position and wait. This response is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, when patients have been on bed rest for an extended period, their bodies may experience orthostatic hypotension, a condition where blood pressure drops significantly when standing or sitting up quickly. This can lead to dizziness or even fainting. By supporting the patient in a sitting position, the aide ensures the patient is safe and can gradually acclimate to the change in position.

Additionally, this approach gives the patient time to recover from the dizziness. The aide can monitor the patient for any changes in their condition, such as the dizziness subsiding or worsening. If the patient continues to feel unwell, further action, such as notifying a nurse or physician, may be warranted.

The other choices, such as rubbing the patient's feet or helping them stand immediately, do not address the immediate need for stability and safety. Similarly, applying a cool compress may provide some comfort but does not necessarily alleviate the underlying cause of the dizziness or provide the necessary support.