rained on the unit, so that staff can easily remember which patients need to get assessments done every two hours (Winston et al., 1999). Perhaps, someone on the unit could be assigned the job of checking periodically that restraints are on properly and doing the assessments. The staff could alternate among themselves the assignment. The nurse manager will have to negotiate ideas with the staff on creating a solution to the problem. In stage five, gaining acceptance, the nurse manager will present the solution he/she thinks will work. A thorough description and discussion of the plan is made with the staff on the unit. In the final stage, stabilizing the innovation and generating self-renewal, the nurse manager performs daily monitoring of practice relating to the new standards on management of restrained patients. The monitoring helps reinforce standard requirements. Daily interaction between the nurse manager and the staff helps to clarify any uncertainties regarding the new standards (Winston et al., 1999). The nurse manager will slowly faze out of being the change agent and let the staff take over. Periodically, the nurse manager will perform monitoring of all restraint episodes to assure continued compliance with the new standards (Winston et al., 1999). The nurse manager will also be in charge of informing the staff when they need to attend continuing education classes on restraints and making sure thatPatient Restraints8 periodic validation of competencies on restraint use of staff members is done. Staff meeting discussions will be held to provide feedback from staff to the nurse manager and provide information on the need for any further changes. Patient restraints are used to protect patients. However, when they are improperly used they can cause serious harm to patients. If restraints are being used improperly it is vitally important that an attempt is made towards change. Change can not be brought about abrupt...
