What action should the nurse take when a family member is found lying on a cardiac patient's bed?

The best course of action in this scenario is to explain that patients have the right to have visitors lying on the bed. This highlights the importance of patient-centered care and recognizes the emotional and psychological support that family members can provide to patients, particularly in sensitive situations such as being hospitalized for a cardiac event.

Patients often benefit from the presence of their loved ones, and allowing family members to lie on the bed can be a source of comfort. It acknowledges the bond between the patient and their family, which can positively impact the patient’s emotional well-being. While safety protocols and patient privacy must always be respected, providing a compassionate environment for patients is essential in nursing practice.

Options that involve asking the family member to leave, calling security, or instructing a UAP to monitor the family behavior may overlook the fundamental needs of the patient for support from their loved ones. These approaches could create tension and may detract from the healing environment, which is contrary to the goals of providing holistic care and respecting the family's role in the patient's recovery process. The focus should be on fostering a supportive atmosphere rather than creating boundaries that might feel restrictive or unwelcoming.