18 ideas to reduce need for restraints

Try these alternatives instead of restraint in the ED, recommended by Kathleen Catalano, RN, JD, senior consultant to the Greeley Co., a health care professional consulting firm in Marblehead, MA, specializing in regulatory compliance:

• Provide a quiet environment.

• Provide a clutter-free environment.

• Give simple instructions.

• Limit number of caregivers.

• Give the patient a backrub.

• Speak in a soothing tone.

• Dim the lights.

• Provide a structured approach.

• Move equipment out of patient view.

• Provide a sitter.

• Lower the patient’s bed.

• Play relaxation tapes/music.

• Give the patient picture books.

• Ask a family member to sit with the patient.

• Encourage large muscle activity, if possible.

• Approach in a slow, nonthreatening manner.

• Maintain a calm attitude.

• Have the patient sit in a rocking chair.

Sources

For more information on de-escalating violent patients, contact:

• Carol Buschur, RN, CEN, The University Hospital, 234 Goodman St., Cincinnati, OH 45267. Telephone: (513) 584-3379. Fax: (513) 584-2637. E-mail: [email protected].

• Diane Presley, RN, MSN, Director of Nursing, Emergency Services/Critical Care, Seton Medical Center, 1201 W. 38th St., Austin, TX 78705. Telephone: (512) 324-1031. Fax: (512) 324-1401. E-mail: [email protected].

• Sherlene Stepp, RN, MICN, Clinical Nurse Supervisor III, UCI Medical Center, 101 The City Drive, Route 128, Orange, CA 92868. Telephone: (714) 456-6549. Fax: (714) 456-5390. E-mail: [email protected].