During indirect care, after placing the call light within reach, what is the next required step?

• A. Open privacy curtain
• B. Place call light in reach
• C. Ask patient if they need anything and are comfortable
• D. Wash hands

Answer: (C)

In indirect care, the focus is on maintaining safety and comfort through communication and observation rather than performing a direct task. After you place the call light within reach, the next step is to check in with the patient by asking if they need anything and if they are comfortable. This keeps the patient involved in their care, gives them a clear avenue to request help, and confirms that their current environment and condition feel okay to them.

Opening the privacy curtain is important for privacy, but it’s not the immediate action tied to this step in the routine sequence. Washing your hands is essential hygiene practice and would occur as part of standard infection control, typically before touching the patient or starting care, not as the next action after placing the call light.