A nurse is caring for an older-adult patient on bed rest with potential sensory deprivation. Which action will the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Placing the patient farthest from the nurses’ station increases isolation, worsening sensory deprivation. Bed rest already limits stimuli, and distance reduces interaction with staff, exacerbating disorientation or loneliness. This action contradicts the need to provide sensory stimulation, making it an incorrect choice. Choice B reason: Asking if the patient wants a newspaper provides visual and cognitive stimulation, counteracting sensory deprivation from bed rest. Reading engages the mind, reducing boredom and disorientation. This action aligns with promoting sensory input, making it an appropriate intervention to maintain mental engagement and well-being. Choice C reason: Offering a back rub provides tactile stimulation, which is beneficial, but sensory deprivation primarily affects cognitive and perceptual functions. Reading a newspaper better addresses visual and intellectual needs, more directly countering the effects of limited environmental stimuli, making this a less optimal choice. Choice D reason: Hanging a “Do not disturb” sign reduces interactions, increasing sensory deprivation. Bed rest patients need regular engagement to prevent disorientation or depression. This action isolates the patient further, contradicting the goal of providing sensory stimulation, making it an incorrect intervention.