Author Question: If an older adult patient must be physically restrained, who is responsible for the patient's ... (Read 78 times)

audie · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

If an older adult patient must be physically restrained, who is responsible for the patient's safety?

a. Nurse assigned to care for the patient
b. Nursing assistant who applies the restraint
c. Health care provider who ordered the application of restraint
d. Family member who agrees to the application of the restraint

Question 2

A health care provider writes these new prescriptions for a resident in a skilled care facility: 2 G sodium diet; restraint as needed; limit fluids to 2000 ml daily; 1 dose milk of magnesia 30 ml orally if no bowel movement occurs for 3 days.

Which prescription should the nurse question?

a. Restraint
b. Fluid restriction
c. Milk of magnesia
d. Sodium restriction

ebe · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Although restraint is ordered by a health care provider, it is carried out by a nursing staff member. The nurse caring for the patient is responsible for the 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 remain responsible for outcomes. Even when the family agrees to restraint, nurses are responsible for providing safe outcomes.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Restraints may be applied only on the 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 orders may be appropriate for implementation.