Question

David, a 70-year-old man was admitted to a hospital last night because of chest infection. He has had a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for 10 years with regular follow up. His vital signs on admission were :

Blood pressure/pulse: 130/70 mmHg / 80 beats per minute

Respiratory rate SpO2 Temperature

: 25 breaths per minute : 90%
: 37.5 degree Celsius

The doctor prescribed 2 litres of oxygen per minute through nasal cannula for David. At mid- night, Nurse Lily found that David was in a confuse condition that he removed the nasal cannula and tried to climb out of bed. When Nurse Lily tried to stop him, he hit her. Nurse Lily informed the doctor in-charge and verbal order was given to restrain David with limb holder and safety vest.

Suggest possible alternatives for restraint in David’s situation.

Answer 1

Instead if restraining the patient

1. Nurse should check the patient blood glucose levels immediately
2. Reassure the patient
3. Provide diversional therapy so that he will have his mind diverted
4. Address the patient by his name and talk to him
5. Try to gain the attention from him as much as possible as it will help
6. Help orient the patient to environment
7. Help the patient spend time with family as familiar faces and will help regain consiousness
8. If needed give sedatives