Question

A nurse in a mental health facility is teaching a newly licensed nurse about the use of mechanical restraints. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates understanding of the teaching?

A. I should use mechanical restraints when a client who is manic starts pacing.
B. I should document every hour when a client is in mechanical restraints.
C. I should request the provider to examine the client within 1 hour of applying mechanical restraints.
D. I should check the client every 30 minutes while in mechanical restraints.

Answer 1

The statement by the newly licensed nurse that shows an understanding of the use of mechanical restraints is the one about requesting a provider to examine the client within 1 hour of applying restraints. Mechanical restraints are used as a last resort under strict guidelines, requiring close monitoring and ethical considerations.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement that indicates the newly licensed nurse understands the teaching about the use of mechanical restraints is: I should request the provider to examine the client within 1 hour of applying mechanical restraints. Mechanical restraints are a last resort to ensure the safety of the client and others and they should only be used when less restrictive interventions are not successful. It is essential to follow strict legal and ethical guidelines which include obtaining a provider's examination shortly after the application of restraints.

The use of mechanical restraints requires continuous monitoring, and the healthcare provider must assess the need for continued use. Documentation should occur more frequently than every hour, and checks on the client also need to be more frequent to ensure the client's physical and psychological well-being. Pacing due to mania is not an immediate indication for mechanical restraints without attempting other interventions first.