Nurse Aide Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Utilizing a footboard to maintain alignment is an effective method to help prevent foot drop in bedridden residents. Foot drop, a condition where the individual is unable to raise the front part of the foot, can result from prolonged immobility and improper positioning. A footboard helps to keep the feet in a neutral position, ensuring that the toes do not point downward, which can contribute to muscle shortening and increased risk of foot drop.

By providing support that encourages proper alignment, the footboard can help maintain normal ankle and foot position. This is particularly important for individuals who spend extended periods in bed, as it supports overall leg and foot health, preventing complications associated with immobility.

The other options provided do not effectively address the concern about foot drop. Encouraging residents to walk frequently may not be feasible for all bedridden individuals and could pose a risk of falls. Decreasing fluid intake does not relate to foot positioning or mobility issues and is not a preventive measure for foot drop. Elevating the legs at all times can actually put the feet in a position that increases the risk of foot drop, as it may lead to improper alignment while not directly addressed. Thus, using a footboard is the most proactive choice for preventing this condition.