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Use of restraints should be documented

Case Management Weekly, October 23, 2007

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Recording every use of restraints on patients could help case managers and nurses prevent possible litigation, according to the 'Director's Desk' in the November issue of Case Management Monthly. As well as protecting against accusations of improper restraint use, timely documentation could help your organization improve its practices when it comes to restraints.

Although restraints have fallen out of favor with many, with evidence suggesting the labor intensive process can increase agitation, some patient situations may still require their use. Even if the situation isn't right, many families may call for restraints and threaten legal action if they're not used. This, says the 'Director's Desk' is a "potential landmine".

"Early education and communication with families are key to overcoming this . . . When a patient situation does call for restraints, additional family education and communication are required."

For tips on communicating with families about restraint use, see the latest issue of Case Management Monthly, HCPro, Inc. Read and subscribe online, at Case Management Monthly

Other articles of interest

Hospitals should consider alternatives to restraints

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