Patient Restraint Guidelines

Crutch Walking Techniques

• Stand behind the patient, grip the gait belt securely with one hand.
• Tripod position: Patient’s weight primarily on the uninjured leg.
• Two-point gait: Move one crutch and the opposite foot simultaneously, then the other foot and crutch.
• Swing-to gait: Advance both crutches first, then swing both legs to the crutches, supported entirely by them.
• Swing-through gait: Advance crutches, then swing both legs past the crutches, allowing them to support all weight.

Patient Assessment: Objective vs Subjective Data

• Objective data includes measurable cues obtained through the senses.
• Restraint guidelines: Ensure not to interfere with medical equipment, avoid tying restraints to bed rails, and regularly check skin integrity.
• Immediate removal of restraints is necessary if there’s a change in neurovascular status.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• PPE includes gloves, masks, goggles, face shields, gowns, head covers, and shoe covers.
• Use of goggles provides eye protection from splashes and droplets but not full facial coverage.
• Sequence for donning PPE: Hand hygiene, gown, mask, eyewear, head cover, shoe covers, gloves.
• Sequence for removing PPE: Gloves, eyewear, gown, mask, shoe covers, followed by hand hygiene.

Hygiene Care for Immobile Patients

• Assess cleanliness through skin appearance and odors indicating hygiene issues.
• Proper wheelchair positioning: Face toward the foot of the bed, secure wheels, and adjust footrests for safety.
• Transfer techniques involve creating a wide base of support and ensuring patient stability.

Bathing Techniques

• Use a bath blanket for warmth and modesty during hygiene care.
• Cleanse areas methodically, starting with the face, followed by chest, arms, and legs.
• Inspect for DVT signs such as warmth, redness, and tenderness during leg cleansing.
• Provide perineal care carefully, using appropriate techniques for male and female patients.

Final Care Steps

• Assist patients into clean clothing as necessary, ensuring comfort while maintaining dignity throughout the process.
• Safely manage linen by placing soiled items in designated bags.
• Support patient positioning and ensure a comfortable environment after hygiene tasks are completed.

Test your knowledge on the proper guidelines for using patient restraints. This quiz covers essential practices to ensure safety and prevent injury while managing restraints in a healthcare setting. Make sure to understand vital aspects such as restraint placement and patient monitoring.