Q. Why do you use restraints?
Restraints are used purely for the patient's safety. When he is restless and confused he may attempt to pull out his tubes. Another reason for the use of restraints is that the patient may have poor balance or try to climb out of bed and fall. It is not possible for nursing staff to watch patients all the time so restraints may be necessary for their safety. If the patient has to be restrained you will be notified, unless it occurs during the night shift or as an emergency.
Q. Why is the patient incontinent?
Bladder control is a learnt behaviour and is controlled by certain parts of the brain. Due to the patient's confusion and the brain injury, his ability to consciously control the urge to urinate may be lost temporarily. As the patient's condition improves, bladder control also usually improves.
Q. Why can't the patient sleep whenever he wants to?
It is important for recovery that people start to spend longer periods out of bed. Spending time sitting in a chair or standing on the tilt table increases alertness and helps prevent chest infections. Sleep disturbances can occur following brain injury so it is useful to establish a normal sleep/waking routine as early as possible.
Q. When can the patient go out of the unit for a walk?
Patients can go out for a walk as long as they are supervised by their family or a staff member. The only time a patient should not go outside of the unit is when he is in PTA. At this time he is confused and disorientated and his safety is our main concern. It also can be difficult to get the patient to come back into the ward once he is outside.
Last modified: Thursday, 20 April 2006