Patients sometimes become confused or agitated when they are ill. They may awaken with a startle and unexpectedly pull at lines and tubes. They may attempt to get out of bed or even strike out at people. We may need to use some form of restraint in these
situations to keep the patient and our staff safe.
Your family member's nurse will discuss any safety concerns with you and ask for your consent if there is a need to use some type of restraint. We attempt to use the least restrictive form of restraint. Sometime, a loose cotton restraint around a wrist can prevent a patient from pulling out a breathing tube. Medications may be needed to ensure that the patient is free of pain and to manage anxiety or delirium.
Last update: BM
October 31, 2018
