Review Video

Not so very long ago, nurses and other healthcare professionals believed that side rails were essential and appropriate for protecting patients from falls and injuries; and restraints were used ad lib to prevent disruption of therapies and to deal with delirium. Research shows that these strategies can actually contribute to injury and/or exacerbate delirium. Instead, more thoughtful approaches to individualizing care; creating more tranquil environments; and using distractions rather than restraints, is a safer and more appropriate approach to care of older adults with dementia (and delirium).

Avoiding Restraints in Older Adults with Dementia walks viewers through a scenario involving a patient with dementia admitted after falling at home, and found to have an underlying urinary tract infection. The patient repeatedly pulls out his IV and Foley catheter during the night shift. As a result, wrist restraints are applied to protect the catheter and IV, and to keep him from climbing out of bed in his confused state. During this program, viewers will learn how to work backward from the problem and use a variety of best practices to eliminate the need for restraints, and to minimize the likelihood of future hospitalizations for the older adult with dementia. This video organizes information in chaptered formats for viewers interested in specific aspects of the program.

Lorraine Mion, PhD, RN, FAAN has no significant ties, financial or otherwise, to any company that might have an interest in the publication of this educational activity.