RISKS WITH RESTRAINTS

Question 1

what are risks associated with restraints?

Answer 1

1. death by asphyxiation and strangulation

2. complications with immobility (pressure ulcers, pneumonia, and urinary/fecal incontinence)

Question 2

what are legal considerations for restraints?

Answer 2

1. understand agency policies and federal/state laws

2. improper use of restraints

Question 3

what are the different types of restriants?

Answer 3

physical and chemical restraints

Question 4

when should restraints NEVER be used?

Answer 4

never use restraints for:

1. convenience of staff
2. punishment
3. patients who are physically or mentally unstable
4. patients who cannot tolerate decreased stimulation of seclusion room

Question 5

how long are restraints used for different age groups?

Answer 5

only allow for 4 hours for an adults, 2 hours for patients 9-17 years of age, and 1 hour for patients less than 9 years old

Question 6

what are guidelines for restraints?

Answer 6

1. prescribed for shortest duration possible and only after less restrictive methods have proved insufficient
2. PRN scripts are not permitted
3. obtain a script within 1 hour for emergency situations

Question 7

what are the nurse’s responsibilities for restraints?

Answer 7

1. determine need for restraints and document the initial patient condition at time of restraint
2. get the order
3. assess skin/bony prominence while restrained
4. exercise while restrained

Question 8

when is a renewal order done for restraints?

Answer 8

renewal order has to be done every 24 hours for restraints and MUST be written

Question 9

when are neurosensory checks done while a patient is on restraints?

Answer 9

neurosensory checks are done every 2 hours while patient has restraints

Question 10

when should medical restraints be documented?

Answer 10

medical restraints should be documented every 2 hours

Question 11

when should psychiatric restraints be documented?

Answer 11

psychiatric restraints should be documented every 15 minutes