An elderly patient must be physically restrained. Who is ...

[lracut11]

An elderly patient must be physically restrained. Who is responsible for the patient's safety?
 
  a. The nurse assigned to care for the patient
  b. Unlicensed assistive personnel who apply the restraint
  c. Family member who agrees to application of the restraint
  d. Health care provider who prescribed application of restraint

Question 2

A health care provider writes these new prescriptions for a resident in a skilled nursing facility: 2 G sodium diet, Restraint as needed, Limit fluids to 1800 mL daily,
 
  Continue antihypertensive medication, Milk of magnesia 30 mL PO once if no bowel movement for 3 days. The nurse should:
 
  a. question the fluid restriction.
  b. question the order for restraint.
  c. transcribe the prescriptions as written.
  d. assess the resident's bowel elimination.

[Amiracle]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Although restraint is prescribed by a health care provider, the restraint is a measure carried out by nursing staff. The nurse caring for the patient is responsible for safe application of restraining devices and for providing safe care while the patient is restrained. Nurses may delegate the application of restraining devices and the care of the patient in restraint, but the nurse remains responsible for outcomes. Even when family agree to restraint, nurses are responsible for providing safe outcomes.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Restraints may be imposed only on a written order of the health care provider that specifies the duration during which the restraints can be used. The Joint Commission guidelines and Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act regulations also mandate a number of other conditions that must be considered and documented before restraints are used. The other prescriptions are appropriate.