What is the first step after administering a preoperative injection?

After administering a preoperative injection, it is essential to prioritize patient safety and comfort. Raising the side rails on the bed is an important first step in this process. This action helps prevent the patient from falling if they start to become sedated or disoriented due to the effects of the medication. Elevating the side rails acts as a safety measure, ensuring that the patient remains safe while they are waiting for the surgical procedure to begin.

While checking vital signs, informing the family of the procedure, and preparing the surgical site are all integral aspects of preoperative care, they typically follow the immediate safety measures taken after administering medications. Ensuring the patient's safety through raising the side rails should be done before addressing other procedural aspects. This prioritization reflects best practices in nursing and patient care.