To support patient safety, the head of the bed should be raised to which range during care tasks?

• A. 0 degrees
• B. 15 degrees
• C. 45-90 degrees
• D. 180 degrees

Answer: (C)

Raising the head of the bed to a moderate-to-high angle enhances airway protection and makes care tasks safer and easier to perform. When the bed is elevated to a range roughly between 45 and 90 degrees, the airway stays better aligned, reducing the risk of aspiration if the patient regurgitates or coughs during procedures. It also improves chest expansion for easier breathing and provides better visibility and access to the patient’s mouth, face, lines, and monitoring equipment, which supports safe and efficient care. A very low angle (nearly flat) doesn’t protect the airway or improve access, while a full upright position is often impractical for routine care and can be unstable or uncomfortable for the patient. The matchable range of 45–90 degrees is the balance that supports safety and practicality during care tasks.