A nurse on a mental health unit placed a client in mechanical restraints after the client assaulted another client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Obtain a prescription for restraints on an as-needed basis.
Have the provider assess the client within 1 hr after applying the restraints.
Request that the provider renew the prescription for restraints every 8 hr.
Evaluate the client hourly while the restraints are applied.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Obtain a prescription for restraints on an as-needed basis:
Restraints should never be used on an as-needed basis without a specific, individualized order from a healthcare provider. Restraints are a significant intervention that should only be used when necessary, and they require a clear prescription outlining the duration, reason, and method of application.
B. Have the provider assess the client within 1 hour after applying the restraints:
This option is the correct choice. It is crucial to involve the healthcare provider promptly after restraints are applied. The provider needs to assess the patient's physical and mental status, and the appropriateness of the restraints, and consider alternatives or modifications to the intervention. Regular assessments ensure the patient's safety and well-being while addressing the initial reason for applying restraints.
C. Request that the provider renew the prescription for restraints every 8 hours:
Restraining a patient every 8 hours without ongoing assessment and a clear clinical rationale is inappropriate and goes against best practices. Restraints should only be used when absolutely necessary and should be reevaluated frequently. Requesting a renewal on a fixed schedule without considering the patient's changing condition is not a safe or ethical approach.
D. Evaluate the client hourly while the restraints are applied:
While regular monitoring of a patient in restraints is essential, evaluating the patient every hour might not be sufficient, especially in the early stages after the application of restraints. The patient should be continuously monitored, with assessments conducted more frequently, especially immediately after applying the restraints, to ensure their safety and well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "What have you done to change your situation?"
This response can come off as accusatory and might make the client feel judged. It's not the most therapeutic response in this situation.
B. "You should remove yourself from this situation now."
While removing oneself from a harmful situation is generally good advice, it might not be practical or safe in the heat of the moment. Moreover, this response doesn't address the underlying emotional distress the client is expressing.
C. “Are you thinking about harming yourself?"
This response directly assesses the client's suicidal ideation. It's essential to ask direct questions about self-harm when a person expresses feelings of hopelessness, as it provides an opportunity for the client to talk about their thoughts and feelings and for the nurse to assess the level of risk accurately.
D. “We will help get you through this. You'll be fine."
While offering support and reassurance is essential, it doesn't directly address the immediate concern of potential suicidal thoughts. The nurse should assess the client's safety first before providing reassurance.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The client states that he will harm himself unless the restraints are removed.
This statement indicates a clear risk, but merely stating a desire for restraint removal is not sufficient reason to remove restraints. It's essential to assess the patient comprehensively and make the decision based on their current state and safety concerns.
B. The client demonstrates that he is oriented to person, place, and time.
When a restrained patient shows orientation to person (knows who they are and who others are), place (knows where they are), and time (knows the current date and time), it suggests they are aware of their surroundings and can make rational decisions. This orientation indicates a level of awareness that might justify removing the restraints.
C. The client is able to follow commands.
While following commands is an important aspect, it alone might not be enough to guarantee the patient's overall awareness of their situation and safety. A comprehensive assessment, including orientation and ability to follow commands, is necessary.
D. The client refuses to take his medication unless he is released.
Medication refusal alone may not be a sufficient reason to remove restraints, especially if the patient is not demonstrating an understanding of their situation or if releasing the restraints could pose a risk to the patient or others.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.