What does it mean to "dangle" in a nursing context?

In a nursing context, "dangle" refers specifically to the action of sitting a resident up on the side of the bed with their legs hanging over the edge. This position is often used to help residents prepare for standing or walking, facilitating blood circulation and allowing the patient to acclimate to being upright. It’s a common technique employed to assess a resident’s stability and readiness to move, and it can help prevent dizziness or fainting when transitioning from lying down to a standing position. The practice of dangling also provides an opportunity for caregivers to observe any signs of discomfort or issues that might arise when the patient changes positions.