A client with a neurocognitive disorder is frequently wandering the hallway during the night shift and entering the rooms of other clients. The unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) asks the nurse to apply a physical restraint to keep the client safely in bed. Which of the following is the legally appropriate initial action by the registered nurse?
- ARequest a prescription from the healthcare provider for a soft wrist restraint.
- BDelegate the assessment of the client's behavioral triggers to the UAP.
- Initiate alternative safety interventions, such as a bed exit alarm or moving the client closer to the nursing station.Answer
- DAdminister a prescribed as-needed (PRN) sedative to manage the client's nighttime wandering.
Answer
Initiate alternative safety interventions, such as a bed exit alarm or moving the client closer to the nursing station.
Clients possess a fundamental legal right to be free from physical and chemical restraints. Before any restraint can be applied, the nurse is legally obligated to exhaust and document all less restrictive alternative measures, such as bed alarms, environmental modifications, or frequent reorientation.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Use of Restraints and Safety Devices (Legal Rights)