Group Home Admin Clients/Residents Practice Exam

What type of information should be reviewed by nursing staff after a physical restraint is initiated?

1. Only previous medical history

2. Vital signs and current medications

3. Medical history not needed

4. Only the reason for restraint

The correct answer is: Vital signs and current medications

Reviewing vital signs and current medications after a physical restraint is initiated is crucial for several reasons. Physical restraints can induce physiological stress on a resident's body, and monitoring vital signs helps ensure that there are no adverse effects resulting from the restraint. Vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, provide immediate feedback on the individual's physical well-being. Additionally, understanding current medications is important as certain medications can impact cardiovascular and overall health status, potentially complicating the response to restraint. For example, some medications may cause drowsiness or agitation, influencing how the resident might react when restrained. By closely examining both vital signs and medications, nursing staff can provide the necessary care and make informed decisions about the resident’s ongoing treatment and safety. In contrast, previous medical history alone does not provide a real-time understanding of the resident's health status, and a focus solely on the reason for restraint could overlook critical physiological monitoring that ensures the resident's safety during and after the application of restraints. These considerations highlight why reviewing vital signs and current medications is a best practice in the context of physical restraints.