Review the patient’s medical record for an authorizing physician’s order.

Review the patient’s nursing care plan for information regarding the following:

• Physical limitations.
• Mechanical equipment being utilized; that is, IV infusion pumps, chest drainage set, urinary drainage sets.
• Distance patient is to ambulate.
• Length of time patient is to be out of bed.
• Frequency patient is to get out of bed.

Review the Nurse’s Notes to identify the patient’s previous tolerance of the activity specified.

Explain the rationale for getting out of bed to the patient.

Pre-medicate for pain prior to getting out of bed, if necessary.

Ensure that the patient is appropriately clothed, including footwear.